Downtown location offers free Academic Upgrading for adults
Niagara College is bringing its proven expertise in academic upgrading to the heart of the Hamilton community, opening crucial new pathways for local residents.
On Nov. 24, representatives from the College celebrated the grand opening of its new Academic Upgrading – Hamilton Campus with a ribbon cutting event. The new site, located at 225 King William St. (Suite 204), offers local residents aged 18 and older the chance to complete their high school equivalency (ACE), upgrade essential skills or complete specific courses – such as English, Mathematics, Science or Computer Software Applications — to prepare for postsecondary or apprenticeships free of charge.
“At Niagara College, we know that accessibility to vital educational pathways transforms lives, and we are proud to bring our student-focused and welcoming approach to Hamilton,” said Niagara College President Sean Kennedy. “This new academic upgrading site underscores our College’s commitment to partnering with the community and driving inclusive economic growth across the region.”
While NC successfully runs Academic Upgrading at its campuses in Welland and Niagara-on-the-Lake, this additional location was made possible by over $757,000 in funding from the Ministry of Labour, Immigration, Training, and Skills Development, intended to fill a service gap created when a similar program offered by another postsecondary provider closed earlier this year.
Organized by NC’s School of Academic and Liberal Studies and Workforce Development and Community Partnerships, the grand opening drew key community partners from employment and social service agencies, school boards, government funders, and NC faculty and staff.
“This new location reinforces our dedication to accessible, inclusive education, responds to the region’s growing demand, and builds on our history of helping learners successfully transition into postsecondary studies,” said Dean of NC’s Academic and Liberal Studies division David Atherton. “We’re excited to collaborate with our community partners in Hamilton and welcome even more students into the Niagara College family.”
“Expanding Academic Upgrading into Hamilton reflects our deep belief that education should meet learners where they are,” said Rebecca Nicholls, Associate Dean, School of Academic and Liberal Studies at Niagara College. “We know that adult learners bring resilience, ambition, and diverse experiences, and we are committed to providing the support and flexibility they need to take their next steps with confidenc
“This new site allows us to work even more closely with community partners and ensure Hamilton residents have clear, accessible pathways into postsecondary education, apprenticeships, and meaningful employment.”
Sara Gill, Executive Director, Adult Basic Education Association, an adult learning network in Hamilton, was among community partners who applauded the news.
“With the closure of a similar program offered by another postsecondary provider earlier this year, Hamilton was left without a college-based upgrading program. We were thrilled when Niagara College stepped in and committed to having a physical presence in the city to support learners to prepare for college entry, apprenticeship and employment,” said Gill. “We have an amazing suite of Literacy and Basic Skills services in Hamilton, and, with the addition of Niagara College, we’ll be able to support more learners to prepare for and succeed at the post-secondary level.”
For information about Academic Upgrading at NC visit niagaracollege.ca/liberal/program/literacy/.
Those interested in registering for Academic Upgrading at NC’s Hamilton site may email [email protected] or call 905-641-2252 ext. 4418.
A leader in applied education, Niagara College offers diploma, bachelor degree, post-graduate and apprenticeship programs at specialized campuses in Niagara-on-the-Lake and Welland. Ranked as the No.1 research college in Canada, NC is also involved in educational projects and partnerships around the world that provide students with important hands-on-experience. NC welcomes students from across Niagara, Ontario, and around the world who are studying in in-demand programs that support key sectors and industries in Niagara and beyond, with graduates making important contributions in all corners of our community. Learn more at niagaracollege.ca.
NC President Sean Kennedy (left) cuts the ribbon to officially mark the grand opening of NC’s Academic Upgrading – Hamilton Campus, alongside Vice-President Academic Fiona Allan (right) Rebecca Nicholls, Associate Dean, School of Academic and Liberal Studies (second left), and Jessica Berecz, Associate Director, Workforce Development.
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