The Program
BESIP provides internationally educated professionals (IEPs) with entry to high-demand jobs such as Settlement Counsellor, Employment Counsellor, Service Navigator, Program Coordinator. By the end of the program, participants will have a career advancement plan to progressive positions in their field of interest.
Program Goals
BESIP has three main objectives:
- Equip you with the knowledge required for working in service provider jobs in settlement, employment, community, and social services.
- Introduce solid career management strategies and options so you can quickly advance your career.
- Connect you to extensive professional networks and employers.
Program Location
Available anywhere in Ontario
Program Duration
6 Months
Program Start Date
October 2022
Info Session Date
Bi-weekly
Who Should Apply
International educated professionals (IEPs) who want to work in the social services sector
Eligibility Requirements
- International post-secondary education
- Two years’ work experience outside Canada
- Language proficiency (CLB 7) or equivalent
- Interest in working with immigrants
- Good results in the admission assessment
- Legal immigration status (Naturalized Canadian Citizen, Permanent Resident, Convention Refugee, and Refugee Claimant with Work Permit)
- Residence: Ontario
Program Components
Knowledge and Skills Development
131-150 hours of training and one-on-one support in the following areas:
- Foundations and Civic Literacy: an introduction to Canadian history, values, diversity, democratic processes and institutions.
- Working with Individuals and Communities: Introduction to professional practices such as information and referral, system navigation, case management, service coordination, volunteerism, and volunteer management.
- Effective Practices: Guided self-directed study of cutting edge online training modules, following an individualized learning plan aligned with the participant’s career goals.
Career Preparation
85-90 hours of training and one-on-one support in the following areas:
- Workplace Culture and Communication: Skills for functioning effectively in multicultural environments.
- Strategic Career Planning and Job Search: Facilitated and self-directed career planning and professional job search preparation and activities.
Workplace Connections
- Guest speakers, mentoring, networking, and employer events
- Capstone Course (2+ weeks): Participants spend time at a workplace related to their career interest. Activities include job shadowing, completing information interviews, and practice assignments
- Placement
- Support with job search and optional workplace placements
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