ABOUT THE PROGRAM

OVERVIEW

The Career Bridging Program (CBP) assists Newcomers during their transition into the Saskatchewan labour market. When entering the labour market in a new country, Newcomers must learn a new workplace culture and set of employment norms, and bridging programs are here to help! The in-class portion of this program covers the Canadian application process, interview skills, digital literacy, financial literacy, Canadian workplace culture, and Canadian employment standards. The class also incorporates several online employment skills certifications. The in-class is four weeks long and is followed by mentorship, job shadowing and/or experiential learning with a local employer.

INTAKES

There are seven intakes for CBP per year:

• August 2027
• September 2026
• November 2026
• January 2027
• March 2027
• May 2027
• June 2027

Classes take place Monday-Friday from 9:30 am – 2:30 pm. Classes are currently offered through hybrid delivery (both online and in-person instruction).

IN-CLASS TRAINING

In-class employment skills training consists of:

Week 1: the online application process, resumes, cover letters, aptitude tests, and reference checks.

Week 2: interview skills, workers’ rights and responsibilities as defined by the Ministry of Employment Standards, the Saskatchewan Human Rights Code, and health and safety in the workplace.

Week 3: financial literacy including deductions to expect on paychecks, filing taxes in Canada, student loans, and Canadian workplace culture.

Week 4: networking and interview skills, small talk, and soft skills.

Program Highlights

• Individual learning plans to identify career goals
• Volunteer work placements
• Employment skills training and targeted academic training
• Workplace safety and culture (in-class)
• Guest speakers and presentations on various employment-related topics
• Computer skills training and online certifications
• Financial literacy

Job Shadowing & Experiential Learning Overview

The Career Bridging Program matches participants with local employers for real-world learning opportunities. These opportunities allow participants to observe and explore their chose career path in Canada, gain experience, network with professionals working in their field, mentorship, and earn Canadian references. Participants work closely with the Employment Liaison to secure a learning opportunity that suits their educational background and skillset.

Eligibility Requirements

• Accessible to all newcomers to Canada (focusing on, but not limited to, newcomers within the past 5 years), ages 16 and over, who experience barriers to employment
• English language requirement CLB 4 – 8
• Must be a Permanent Resident, have a valid work permit, or be a new Canadian Citizen
• Legally authorized to work in Saskatchewan

At Regina Open Door Society, we offer an educational, professional training program for newcomers to Canada. This program is funded by the Ministry of Immigration and Career Training. Through this program, we partner with local employers to familiarize participants with Canadian workplace culture, build their professional networks, and offer them Canadian references.

We always welcome new partnerships!