Learning Networks of Ontario (LNO)

The Learning Networks of Ontario (LNO) is made up of 16 regional learning networks across Ontario. We are funded by the Ministry of Labour, Immigration, Training and Skills Development (MLITSD) as part of Employment Ontario (EO). Each regional learning network

• provides support and capacity building to local Get SET (Skills, Education and Training) programs
• collaborates with workforce and community partners to develop an annual Literacy Service Plan to address community needs
• provides public awareness and promotion of Get SET services to ensure seamless pathways for adults to access services
• offers other services that vary across the province (for example, centralized assessment, family literacy, Clear Writing, events, etc.)

To learn more, contact your local learning network.

Learn more about our programs funded through the Ministry of Labour, Immigration, Training and Skills Development, Get SET (Skills, Education and Training) Programs.

The Learning Networks play an increasingly important role in system planning, coordination and integration. This role extends beyond adult education and training. It also includes our other partners in apprenticeship, language services and Employment Services.

As a group, the Learning Networks of Ontario

• share resources to strengthen Get SET services
• collaborate to coordinate services
• respond to provincial and labour market needs
• advocate collectively on behalf of learners and adult upgrading programs
• share expertise and experiences to learn from each other
• create and collaborate on projects

All Ontarian adults have access to quality education and training.

LNO will work collaboratively to

• support adult education and training across Ontario
• build capacity through research and by developing resources
• facilitate service coordination and planning
• support knowledge sharing

Collaboration – We value collaboration among the Get SET service providers, key stakeholders, community partners and funders. By sharing knowledge, resources, and expertise across the province, we strengthen adult learning services and improve outcomes for learners.

Equity and Diversity – We are committed to equity, diversity and inclusion in all aspects of our work. We honour the lived-experiences, cultures, languages and identities of Get SET service providers and adult learners. We strive to remove systemic barriers to access, participation and success.

Advocacy – We advocate for adult literacy as a human right. It’s a critical social determinant of economic, civic, health, and community well-being. We amplify the voices of both service providers and adult learners to improve policies, funding and awareness of literacy services in Ontario. We advocate for a robust literacy system for adults in Ontario.

Leadership – We guide and support Get SET service providers. We do this through evidence-based practices, innovation and collaboration. We lead with accountability, integrity and a shared vision for a strong and sustainable adult literacy sector in Ontario.

Learning – We believe in continuous learning for individuals and organizations. We promote responsive, learner-centred exchanges of knowledge and skills development. This strengthens the capacity of individuals and organizations to achieve their goals.

We have worked collectively as learning networks since our inception. We formally adopted the name Learning Networks of Ontario in 2010. Some regional networks have been around for more than 40 years. Many started as grassroots-level organizations run by volunteers. Their aim was to provide support to the small but determined organizations helping adults to upgrade their skills. Over the years, the Learning Networks have expanded to offer a range of supports and services to their communities.

We are funded by the Ministry of Labour, Immigration, Training and Skills Development (MLITSD). As funded support organizations, we help to

• build capacity of Get SET (Skills, Education and Training) agencies by bringing them together for training
• provide resources and support
• bring community awareness to Get SET
• provide information and referral services
• link adults to training
• improve service coordination
• coordinate literacy services planning
• link with other community agencies and employers