Support refugees and newcomers with their new start while you gain valuable teaching experience. Opportunities available both in-person and online, mornings, afternoons, and evenings, see below for more details!
Currently, our greatest need is for volunteers to teach in-person on weekday mornings and afternoons. However, we still welcome applications for online and evening classes.
Are you looking for a meaningful way to connect with others, support your community, and grow your personal and professional skills? Volunteering as an ESL (English as a Second Language) teacher at CCI-LEX offers all of that—and more.
At CCI-LEX, we believe that language learning is about more than grammar and vocabulary. It’s about connection, confidence, and community. As a volunteer, you become a guide, mentor, and friendly face for newcomers as they begin building a new life in Canada.
Whether you’re just starting out in your career, looking for a new way to give back, or eager to stay active in retirement, volunteering with us is a fulfilling and inspiring experience. We provide the lesson plans, so you can focus on the teaching!
Our volunteers are as diverse as the students we serve. No teaching experience? No problem! What matters most is that you bring patience, empathy, and a willingness to learn.
We welcome volunteers from all backgrounds, including:
Bring your communication, leadership, and organizational skills into the classroom. Volunteering gives you the chance to use your talents in a fresh and meaningful way, all while building deeper community connections.
Stay engaged, active, and involved. Many of our retired volunteers say that teaching gives them a renewed sense of purpose and joy. Plus, it’s a great way to meet people and continue lifelong learning.
Volunteering at CCI-LEX is a fantastic way to gain Canadian volunteer experience, develop public speaking or teaching skills, and build your confidence in a supportive environment—all while giving back to others on a similar journey.
Are you a student looking to gain hands-on experience, build your resume, or explore a potential career in education, social work, or community development? Anyone over 18 is welcome to volunteer as a teacher. You’ll work with prepared course materials, develop facilitation skills, and gain real classroom experience. Many of our student volunteers receive glowing reference letters that help support job, scholarship, or grad school applications.
Through this rewarding experience, you can hone your skills in effective communication, facilitation, and working with diverse groups—all of which are in-demand skills sought after by employers. You can also get job references from our supportive team, build your network, and gain access to free training workshops and other learning opportunities.
Are you passionate about helping others and making a difference in your community? Supporting newcomers in their English-learning journey is one of the most direct, rewarding ways to give back. When you volunteer with us, you’re not just teaching language—you’re helping build confidence, belonging, and a sense of home for those new to Canada.
We want all our volunteers to feel prepared and confident before stepping into the classroom. That’s why we’ve developed a flexible, supportive training program that adapts to your schedule and experience.
Training typically takes 12-17 hours over 4 to 6 weeks, during which you’ll:
You’ll also receive continued support even after your training ends. Our staff are always available to answer questions, provide feedback, and ensure you feel set up for success.
Gain valuable experience in teaching, public speaking, and working with diverse individuals
Grow your teaching background, develop new professional skills, and take part in ongoing professional development workshops
Receive professional feedback to help you improve and grow as an educator
Get a personalized reference letter recognizing your contributions and dedication
Meet amazing people from around the world and build lasting connections
Contribute to a more inclusive, welcoming community for newcomers
Be a part of an amazing team, expand your network, and enjoy CCI-LEX special events
Enjoy practical perks like free parking or subsidized transit tickets if you’re teaching in person
Many of our volunteers say that teaching at CCI-LEX is one of the most meaningful things they’ve ever done—and we couldn’t agree more.
If you’re passionate about learning, community, and making a real difference in someone’s life, we’d love to have you on our team.
Becoming a volunteer teacher is a powerful way to support Edmonton’s newcomers as they settle into a new country, learn a new language, and create a new future.
Apply today—and help build stronger communities, one class at a time.
Our application process is a simple process. Start by filling out our online form, and we’ll help you coordinate the rest:
Volunteering your time and knowing that you’re making an impact on the lives of others is an incredibly fulfilling experience. Volunteer as an ESL teacher and support adult newcomers through English language instruction and the exchange of cultural knowledge.
