What to Expect from the Co-Op Program

The Co-Op Program combines language learning with a volunteer workplace experience. It involves two stages.

First, you complete a language course (minimum 4 weeks).

Next, you are placed in a Canadian company as a volunteer (also a minimum of 4 weeks). The workplace assignment is an integral part of the Co-Op program as it allows you to put your language skills to use in real-life situations.

Program Description

In Montreal, Co-Op students have the unique opportunity to undertake a bilingual volunteer assignment. Both languages are used in the workplace. The official language of the province of Quebec is French although Montreal is the centre of English business for the province. LSC Co-Op students are required to have high-intermediate French skills for their placement. An ability in English is also required. There is no minimum requirement for English but a stronger ability will enhance your opportunities for a suitable assignment.

The volunteer assignment begins the week after you have completed the language course component at LSC. The duration of the volunteer assignment cannot exceed the length of the language course. For example, a student who takes a 4 week course may only take a maximum 4 week assignment. A student who studies for 8 weeks can take a maximum 8 week assignment. The volunteer assignment can be shorter than the language studies if so wished (minimum 4 weeks).

You can expect to volunteer from approximately 20 hours to 37.5 hours per week.

Language Course

(Intensive, Semi-Intensive, Plus)

Any combination of the above courses may be taken before being placed as a volunteer in a Canadian company. Minimum study per course is 2 weeks. Total length of all courses combined must be at least 4 weeks.

The required course means that Co-Op students must study a minimum of 6 hours daily for 4 weeks. Outside of this 4-week period, Co-Op students can choose programs of either 4 or 6 hours.

Required Focus Studies Course

Co-Op students take a required Focus Studies course which is 4 weeks long.

Preparation a un Stage a l'Enterprise for bilingual French/English assignment (Montreal)

In the required Focus Studies course, you will perfect your resume, receive tips on interview techniques and learn the practical communication skills you need in order to be successful in both the interview stage and during the volunteer experience.

The Focus Studies course is an advanced course and is offered every session. You may start any week but must take all four units (4 weeks).

Failure to meet Minimum Ability After Completion of Studies

Should you still not meet the minimum ability of high-intermediate by the end of the booked language studies at LSC, the school will continue to try to make a Co-Op assignment on your behalf. The type of assignment that can be arranged will be limited by your language ability.

The Volunteer Assignment

The purpose of the volunteer assignment is to provide real experiences for use of the language. The length of the assignment cannot exceed that of the language course although it can be shorter than total language studies. Co-Op students can expect to volunteer approximately 20 to 37.5 hours per week.

During the assignment, you are welcome to discuss any issues regarding your experience with the Co-Op Co-ordinator.

Evaluation during the Volunteer Assignment

During the assignment, you are welcome to discuss any issues regarding your experience with the Co-Op Co-ordinator.

At the end of the assignment, the school issues a Co-Op Programme Certificate and requests the company to complete a report assessing your workplace performance.

Insurance

LSC requires Co-Op students to have medical insurance. LSC can help students to purchase insurance upon arrival at the school. The cost of insurance is $12 Cdn per week.