Literacy Basics - Community Literacy of Ontario

The Essential Skills Profiles

The ES Profiles are considered by some ES pioneers as the most important Essential Skills tool. Information gathered during more than 4,500 interviews with employees describes how each of the Essential Skills is used to perform a variety of job tasks. Many of the skills required are transferable to everyday activities, also making them relevant for learners with independence goals.

The Essential Skills website currently has approximately 300 ES Profiles (http://srv108.services.gc.ca/english/general/ES_Profiles_e.shtml). C and D level occupations were completed first, and it should be noted that profiles at these levels represent 65 per cent of all jobs in Canada. The ES profiles are organized according to the nine occupational classifications and four skill levels of the National Occupational Classification (NOC). Many A and B level profiles have also been completed.

Occupations that are rated skill level C usually require secondary school and/or job specific training. For D level jobs, no formal education is necessary, and on-the-job training may be provided by employers. The ES Profiles that would apply to adult learners include the following types of jobs.

• Clerical and health services support workers (level C)
• Intermediate and elemental sales and service personnel (levels C and D)
• Transportation and manufacturing equipment operators, assemblers, and labourers (levels C and D)
• Trades helpers and labourers (level D)
• Primary industry workers (level D)
• Material handlers (level C)
• Motor vehicle drivers, installers, and service providers (level C)

Profiles for A and B levels require apprenticeship, college, or university education. There are currently more than 60 profiles posted, and profiles at this level are scheduled to be completed in entirety by 2009.

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