Written by Gabriela Estrada

Building a brick wall, digging a trench, pouring cement, drawing up and interpreting blueprints, etc., are typical construction tasks that do not seem at all related to knowing English or French, at least not in a country where Spanish, Portuguese, Chinese or any other language is spoken; however, construction and mastering English and/or French are closely related when it comes to immigrating to Canada, an officially English-speaking country. Here, many foreign construction workers have the possibility to get a good job, but only if they qualify for the immigration program and for the position. And English is necessary to qualify, the answer is shown in this new article dedicated to the CLB language level to work in Canada. 

In our Planeta Immiland blog, we have developed this same topic with other trades and professions, now it is the turn of the builders or masons, a very important workforce that provides skilled labor to the economic progress of this country.

What does CLB language level mean?

One of the most important requirements for Canadian immigration is to demonstrate adequate language skills in English or French, depending on the province or immigration program. To do so, the government assesses your language proficiency using a standard called the Canadian Language Benchmark (CLB) and the Common European Framework of Reference for Languages (CEFR).

Having a CLB language level means that it has been measured according to the Canadian Government Benchmark Scale (CLB), which is used for immigration to the country. 

What CLB level must a builder have to work in Canada?

In Canada, the level of English required to work in construction may vary depending on the type of job and the immigration program. There is an important point here, as the construction industry may require a university degree if the position is at the technical, design or management level, as we would then be talking about civil engineers or architects, in which case the minimum CLB language level would be 7, on a scale of 0 to 9, i.e., intermediate-advanced.

If a builder or bricklayer has worked in this country under the Canadian Experience Class program, the CLB language level must be at least 5 or 7, depending on the category of work performed.

If you have worked under the Skilled Occupations Program, the minimum language level required is a CLB 5 (listening and speaking 5, reading and writing 4).

What tests assess the CLB level of a builder in Canada?

The following tests evaluate reading, writing, comprehension and oral expression skills:

• The IELTS (International English Language Testing System), whose required scores vary according to the immigration program. 
• The CELPIP (Canadian English Language Proficiency Index Program), which is used for immigration, citizenship and professional designation in Canada.
• The PTE (Pearson Test of English), a language test to demonstrate general English proficiency for immigration purposes to Canada. The test assesses everyday English skills in speaking, writing, reading and listening.
• The TEF (Test d'évaluation de français, an international reference test that measures your level of knowledge and skills in French.

What is the linguistic work environment like for a builder?

This trade is not just about laying bricks and blocks on top of each other, this trade involves direct or indirect contact with clients, subcontractors and co-workers, as well as understanding instructions, plans and regulations in English. Mastering the Canadian language is important for effective and accurate verbal communication. 

A bricklayer will probably receive instructions from his superior and will often have to read measurements, understand plans and sketches, calculate the materials needed for the work and know their names, as well as perform tasks involving the physical strength of two or more people. 

In short, being a builder or bricklayer in Canada requires intermediate to advanced bilingualism. This level can be achieved with specialized courses that allow you to learn the vocabulary and expressions of the work environment and is a valuable opportunity to relate better with the environment, increase your employment opportunities and achieve permanent residence in a country with an excellent quality of life.

We hope this article has shed some light on your immigration project as a qualified builder or bricklayer and how far you need to go in your language learning process. If you wish to improve your CLB level with our Planeta Immiland school, you can contact an authorized advisor and ask for the following courses English 4 Express Entry, Mobilité Francophone, IELTS Preparation, Celpip Pre ProgramSuccess with your new level of English!

With love,

Planet Immiland