Calum MacKechnie, director of the York University English Language Institute (YUELI), has been appointed as the first president of Languages Canada, a Canadian-wide organization that represents the business and academic interests of private and public language schools.
Languages Canada brings together the Canadian Association of Private Language Schools (CAPLS) and the Canada Language Council (CLC) into one new organization, a change MacKechnie was instrumental in bringing about in September 2007.
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Right: Calum MacKechnie
Formed in 1997, CAPLS is the largest association of private English and French language schools with over 100 study locations across the country, while the CIC, an organization that promotes standards and excellence in English and French language training in Canada, has represented the public and private sectors for 25 years. Together, these two organizations represented over 180 English as a second language (ESL) and French as a second language (FSL) programs at universities, colleges and private language institutions across Canada.
Languages Canada will provide a united, bilingual voice while providing accreditation to quality, English and French language training programs.
YUELI, in operation since 1985, has extensive experience in English teacher training programs and is accredited by the Canada Language Council. It provides non-credit English as a second language courses designed to improve English language skills for international students, prospective University entrants and professionals.
MacKechnie holds a BA in economics from the University of Stirling in Scotland, an MEd in educational administration from the University of Washington, as well as a diploma in teaching ESL from the Royal Society of Arts in London.
MacKechnie will continue as director of YUELI at York.