Are you looking for free training to upgrade your employability, academic or computer skills? Our Employment and Academic Preparation courses can help you reach your goals faster!
The Adult Literacy and Basic Skills program can help you:
- Enhance your resume to find a job
- Prepare for post-secondary
- Prepare for an apprenticeship application
- Get your CAEC (High School Equivalency) previously known as (GED)
- Prepare for a high school credit program
- Become more independent in life
- Gain computer skills

Course Offerings & Locations
Our courses are offered in-person and online from September to June with continuous enrollment.
Uplands Community Learning Centre
8210 Yonge Street (Yonge & Hwy 7)
Thornhill, ON L4J 1W6
Mon/Wed/Thurs. 9:00 a.m. - 12:00 p.m.
Mon/Wed/Thurs. 12:30 p.m. - 3:30 p.m.
Mon/Wed 6:00 p.m. – 9:00 p.m.
Distance Learning / Online Classes
Tues/Friday 9:00 a.m. - 12:00 p.m.
Tuesday 12:30 a.m. - 3:30 p.m.
Tues/Thurs 6:00 p.m. - 9:00 p.m.
Basic Computer Skills
Develop basic computer skills (Microsoft Office, E-mail, Internet, Google, etc.) for success in workplaces and post-secondary education. Whether looking to upgrade your computer skills, employment skills, or prepare for post-secondary, this program will build your confidence and abilities while working at your own pace.
Advanced Computer Skills
Develop practical computer skills (Microsoft Word, Excel, PowerPoint, Outlook, OneNote, Publisher, E-mail, Internet, Google) for success in the workplace and post-secondary education. Work at your own pace to advance your computer skills for employment, post-secondary, or use in daily life.
Employment Skills and Academic Upgrading
Upgrade your reading, writing, math, computer and/or soft skills in order to pursue a certificate, degree or career. Whether preparing for Adult Credit School, Apprenticeship, Post Secondary or returning to work, this course will provide individualized instruction at your own pace.
CAEC Preparation (High School Equivalency)
Get individualized support and instruction while preparing for your CAEC (previously known as GED). All subjects are offered.
Participation House
9 Butternut Lane (North of Hwy 7, East of 9th Line)
Markham, ON L3P 3M1
Mon-Fri 9:00 a.m. - 12:00 p.m.
Literacy and Computer Skills for Adults with Special Needs
Through individualized instruction and support, adults with varying levels of abilities build and enhance their employability and life skills for success and independence at their own pace.
For more information
Complete the online contact us form.
Learner Supports
- To participate in an online course, you need:
- A stable internet connection
- A reliable laptop or desktop computer with a functioning webcam and microphone or be able to come to Uplands Community Learning Centre (8210 Yonge Street, L4J 1W6) to borrow a Laptop for learning purposes
- You also need to be able to:
- Use a mouse or a touchpad
- Send an email and attach a file
- Type on a document (e.g. Google or Microsoft word)
- Open a web browser
- Use a webcam and a microphone to participate in a videoconference session
- Keep your cameras on and participate fully during the class
Please note:
We are not able to support learners with their own technology. Video conferencing sessions (Zoom and/or Microsoft Teams) and e-activities will not work effectively on a phone or tablet/iPad. All learners are required to fully participate in all online classroom activities, which is not possible if using a phone/tablet. Therefore, all learners registered for online classes must have access to a computer (laptop, desktop, Chromebook) and have adequate digital literacy skills. Learners who are not able to meet the requirements to fully participate in an online class, will be supported through alternative options.
Laptops are available to borrow for registered learners who are able to pick up a laptop from Uplands Community Learning Centre (8210 Yonge Street, L4J 1W6). Please ask your instructor if your require a laptop.
A Pathways Coach is available to help adult learners get more information on:
- Career Planning & Programs
- Higher Education
- Volunteer Opportunities
- One-on-one Appointments
- Student Plans & Goals
Contact: uplands@yrdsb.ca or call 905-731-9557 for more information