Halifax

1. Tutoring Programs

Tutoring services in Halifax are available for students of all ages, from elementary school to university level. These programs are designed to help students improve their academic performance in specific subjects or develop general study skills.

Key Providers:

• Halifax Learning: Specializes in literacy and math tutoring for children and adults. Their flagship program, "SpellRead," focuses on improving reading and comprehension skills.

  • Location: 7071 Bayers Road, Halifax, NS
  • Cost: Fees vary depending on the program; financial aid may be available for eligible families.
  • Website: halifaxlearning.com

• Kumon Math and Reading Centre: Offers after-school tutoring in math and reading for children.

  • Location: Multiple locations in Halifax, including Bedford and Clayton Park.
  • Cost: Approximately $150–$200 per month per subject.
  • Website: kumon.com

• Private Tutors: Many private tutors in Halifax offer one-on-one or small group sessions. Websites like TutorOcean and First Tutors Canada can help you find local tutors.

  • Cost: $20–$50 per hour, depending on the tutor's qualifications and subject area.

How to Access:

• Contact the organizations directly via their websites or phone numbers.
• For private tutors, use online platforms to search for and book sessions.

---

2. English Language Support for Immigrants

Halifax has a strong network of English language support services to help immigrants and newcomers improve their language skills for daily life, work, and academic purposes.

Key Providers:

• Immigrant Services Association of Nova Scotia (ISANS):

  • Offers free English language classes, conversation circles, and workplace communication training for immigrants.
  • Location: 6960 Mumford Road, Suite 2120, Halifax, NS
  • Cost: Free for eligible immigrants and refugees.
  • Website: isans.ca

• YMCA of Greater Halifax/Dartmouth:

  • Provides the Language Assessment and Referral Centre (LARC), which assesses English proficiency and refers individuals to appropriate language programs.
  • Location: 1233 Barrington Street, Halifax, NS
  • Cost: Free for newcomers.
  • Website: ymcahfx.ca

• Halifax Public Libraries:

  • Offers free English conversation groups and access to language learning resources like Rosetta Stone and Mango Languages.
  • Location: Central Library (5440 Spring Garden Road) and other branches.
  • Cost: Free with a library card.
  • Website: halifaxpubliclibraries.ca

How to Access:

• Register directly with ISANS or YMCA for language assessments and classes.
• Visit your local library branch to join conversation groups or access online resources.

---

3. Special Education Resources

Halifax provides a range of services for students with special needs, including learning disabilities, developmental delays, and physical or mental health challenges.

Key Providers:

• Halifax Regional Centre for Education (HRCE):

  • Offers Individual Program Plans (IPPs) and specialized support for students with special needs in public schools.
  • Cost: Free for students enrolled in public schools.
  • Website: hrce.ca

• Nova Scotia Early Childhood Development Intervention Services (NSECDIS):

  • Provides early intervention services for children with developmental delays (birth to school entry).
  • Location: 6960 Mumford Road, Halifax, NS
  • Cost: Free for eligible families.
  • Website: nsecdis.ca

• Autism Nova Scotia:

  • Offers programs and resources for children and adults on the autism spectrum, including social skills training and family support.
  • Location: 5945 Spring Garden Road, Halifax, NS
  • Cost: Some programs are free; others may have fees.
  • Website: autismnovascotia.ca

How to Access:

• For public school support, contact your child’s school to request an assessment or IPP.
• For early intervention, contact NSECDIS directly.
• For autism-related services, reach out to Autism Nova Scotia for program details.

---

4. Academic Counseling

Academic counseling services in Halifax are available to help students plan their educational paths, choose courses, and prepare for post-secondary education or careers.

Key Providers:

• School Guidance Counselors:

  • Available in all public schools through HRCE to assist students with academic planning and personal development.
  • Cost: Free for public school students.

• Dalhousie University and Saint Mary’s University:

  • Offer academic advising for current and prospective students, including course selection, career planning, and mental health support.
  • Cost: Free for enrolled students; fees may apply for non-students seeking career counseling.
  • Websites:
    • Dalhousie: dal.ca
    • Saint Mary’s: smu.ca

• EduNova Cooperative Ltd.:

  • A non-profit organization that provides information and support for international students in Nova Scotia, including academic and career counseling.
  • Location: 1256 Barrington Street, Halifax, NS
  • Cost: Free for international students.
  • Website: edunova.ca

How to Access:

• Contact your school or university’s guidance office for appointments.
• For international students, reach out to EduNova for tailored support.

---

Additional Considerations:

• Financial Assistance: Many services are free for public school students, immigrants, and low-income families. Check with individual providers for eligibility criteria.
• Transportation: Halifax Transit offers discounted bus passes for students, which can help with accessing services across the city.
• Cultural Sensitivity: Many organizations, such as ISANS and Halifax Public Libraries, are experienced in working with diverse populations and offer culturally sensitive services.

---

By leveraging these educational support services, residents and newcomers in Halifax can access the resources they need to succeed academically and integrate into the community effectively.