By: Captain Brett E. Jones, MTCP/LTTC Coordinator, Canadian Forces Language School

On 9 May 2019, the Language Teacher Trainer Course (LTTC), provided by the Directorate of Military Training and Cooperation (DMTC), had their graduation ceremony at the Canadian Forces Language School (CFLS). The LTTC is the flagship of DMTC’s Military Training and Cooperation Programs (MTCP), it plays a strategic role for Canada and participating nations as it enables communication and dialogue between each nation’s militaries. Having a common language to communicate with is always a benefit to any organization.

The LTTC curriculum is geared towards teaching a language through the communicative approach. In order to meet this goal the Student-Teachers must provide two lesson plans that meet the standard: One lesson plan in a military context and the other in a civilian context. The LTTC course also has a cultural exchange aspect as well. Visits as part of the cultural exchange are: St. Jean-sur-Richelieu, Montreal, Kingston, Toronto, and Niagara Falls, also included are museums in the National Capital Region, Ice Skating, Aboriginal Experience, Sugar Bush and a visit to Upper Canada Village.

In attendance at this LTTC graduation were: 17 Graduates, CFLS Staff and Students, Ambassadors from participating nations and other key role players of the MTCP. Participation in the MTCP is open to non-NATO nations contributing in the Partnership for Peace. The Guest of Honour for this serial was Mr. Peter Hammerschmidt, Assistant Deputy Minister (Policy), who provided a heartfelt speech during the graduation. The ceremony provided the opportunity for WO2 Alrick Williams (Jamaica) and Mrs. Yuliia Khoroshylova (Ukraine) to present a speech regarding their experiences on the course as well as their stay in Canada during the 17 week LTTC course.

Particular mention of this LTTC serial is that one graduating student will become the first Commandant of Colombia’s own language school. Major Moises Ortells will be returning to Colombia with new found knowledge of language instruction and an appreciation of the importance to bilingual capabilities of military members that will undoubtedly benefit the new Commandant.

The LTTC instructional staff have a great sense of pride knowing that with the new language instructional skills the candidates will have the ability to make positive contributions to their military members. The skills these candidates possess will positively contribute to the candidate’s military’s interoperability with foreign nations. The candidates leave Canada with not only new skills, but, also newly fostered friendships among one another.

We wish the candidates the best in their future language instruction roles.