Focus College

Food Handler Training at Focus College Surrey Builds Practical Food Safety Skills
2026-03-21 | Focus College, 13710 94a Ave, Surrey, BC, V3V 1N1, Canada
Focus College successfully hosted a Food Handler Training session on March 21, 2026, at the Surrey campus, led by Arvind Kaur. The session was designed to equip students with essential knowledge and practical skills in safe food handling, personal hygiene, sanitation standards, and food safety regulations.
Throughout the training, students showed strong interest and active participation. They engaged in discussions, asked thoughtful questions, and took part in the learning activities with enthusiasm. This high level of interaction reflected their commitment to understanding the importance of food safety in real-world settings.
The session focused on helping students build a solid foundation in key food handling practices that are important across many workplaces, especially in hospitality, food service, caregiving, and community-based roles. By combining practical guidance with industry-relevant knowledge, the training gave students a clear understanding of how proper food safety practices help protect health and maintain professional standards.
Overall, the Food Handler Training was both informative and impactful, offering students a valuable hands-on learning experience at Focus College. Sessions like this reflect Focus College’s commitment to providing career-focused education that prepares students with practical, job-ready skills for today’s workforce.

Focus College Supports BC Premier David Eby’s Economic Update in Surrey
2026-03-06 | Focus College, 13710 94a Ave, Surrey, BC, V3V 1N1, Canada
On March 6, 2026, Focus College proudly participated as a Supporting Sponsor of the BC Premier David Eby’s Economic Update, hosted by the Surrey & White Rock Board of Trade at the Sheraton Vancouver Guildford Hotel.
Following the release of the provincial budget, the event, presented by BM Group and the Port of Vancouver, brought together business leaders, policymakers, and community stakeholders for an exclusive post-budget discussion on British Columbia’s economic outlook.
During the session, David Eby shared insights into the Province’s fiscal priorities and highlighted how recent budget decisions may impact businesses, workers, and communities, particularly in fast-growing regions such as Surrey and White Rock.
The Premier acknowledged that British Columbians are navigating “a different kind of time,” with families and businesses facing rising costs and economic uncertainty. He emphasized the importance of collaboration between government and the private sector to create a stable and predictable environment for economic growth. The discussion highlighted several major provincial investments in the region, including the development of the Cloverdale Hospital, the Surrey–Langley SkyTrain Extension, expanded student spaces, and upgrades to the Peace Arch Hospital, investments aimed at supporting one of the fastest-growing regions in British Columbia.
Premier Eby also discussed strategies to strengthen B.C.’s economy, including encouraging private sector investment, accelerating permitting processes, expanding global trade opportunities, and advancing major projects in sectors such as mining, LNG, and critical minerals. Ongoing efforts to improve public safety through additional police resources and justice system reforms were also addressed.
As a Supporting Sponsor, Focus College was honoured to be part of this important dialogue on the province’s economic future. The event provided a valuable opportunity for leaders across education, business, and government to connect and explore how collaboration can help build a stronger and more resilient economy for British Columbia.
Ref: https://swrbot.com/events/bc-premier-david-ebys-economic-update/

Focus College Celebrates Completion of the Work Fluent Training ESL Program
2026-03-06 | Focus College, 13710 94a Ave, Surrey, BC, V3V 1N1, Canada
Today, Focus College proudly celebrates the successful completion of the Work Fluent Training ESL Program for our January cohort. Over the past six weeks, students participated in a hands-on learning experience designed to build practical workplace communication and career readiness skills.
Throughout the program, students strengthened their English communication and grammar, while also developing essential professional skills such as resume and cover letter writing, workplace communication, and customer service practices. The training focused on real-world scenarios to help students confidently navigate professional environments.
Participants also explored important workplace topics including Canadian workplace culture, teamwork, workplace safety, and professional etiquette. Interactive sessions allowed students to practice interview scenarios, helping them build confidence and improve their ability to present themselves to employers.
Recognizing the growing importance of digital fluency, students were introduced to professional tools such as Zoom for virtual collaboration and LinkedIn for career networking, while also learning about digital communication and online professionalism.
The Work Fluent Training ESL Program is designed to be practical, career-focused, and immediately applicable. By the end of the six-week journey, students gained stronger communication skills, greater workplace confidence, and the tools needed to succeed in modern professional environments.
Focus College congratulates the January cohort on their dedication and achievements and looks forward to supporting their continued career journeys.

Focus College Delivers Food Handler Safety Training in Mission
2026-02-26 | Focus College, 13710 94a Ave, Surrey, BC, V3V 1N1, Canada
Food Handler Safety Training is a practical, hands-on course that meets British Columbia’s food handler training requirements. This session was delivered at Mission in late February 26, 2026 and is ideal for anyone who prepares, handles, or serves food in a professional setting.
Certification details:
After finishing the in-class training, participants complete the final exam online through the government website. Once they pass, they receive an official Food Handler Certificate that’s valid for 5 years and recognized by public health authorities across British Columbia.
By the end of the training, participants can confidently:

Reduce the risk of food-borne illness through safe food handling
Follow BC food safety regulations and workplace standards
Prevent contamination and cross-contamination (food, surfaces, and utensils)
Practice proper personal hygiene to keep food safe
Maintain effective cleaning and sanitizing routines for equipment and food-contact areas
Strengthen customer confidence through safer food service

For details or upcoming sessions, call (778) 624-2010 or visit focuscollege.com

Customer Service Skills Training
2026-02-17 - 2026-02-18 | Focus College, 13710 94a Ave, Surrey, BC, V3V 1N1, Canada
We held a two-day Customer Service Training on February 17–18, 2026 at the Abbotsford Centre, led by Prabhsharan Kaur from Focus College.
The training was all about practical communication skills for great customer service, both in person and online. Learners worked on how to speak clearly and professionally, build quick rapport, stay positive, and handle everyday customer situations. We also covered how to respond to questions efficiently, manage complaints, and deal with conflict in a calm, respectful way.
It wasn’t a “sit and listen” session. Participants jumped into group discussions, role-plays, and real-life scenarios that felt like actual workplace situations. This gave them a chance to practice active listening, empathy, problem-solving, and professional tone in a supportive environment. Everyone stayed engaged and brought strong energy, sharing ideas, asking smart questions, and working well as a team.
We also spent time on one of the toughest parts of customer service: handling upset or difficult customers. Learners practiced how to stay calm under pressure, de-escalate tense moments, and offer solutions that keep things moving in a positive direction. We also highlighted how important teamwork, cultural awareness, and flexibility are when working with people from different backgrounds.
Overall, the session was informative, hands-on, and confidence-boosting. Learners left with stronger communication skills and a clearer sense of how to deliver a solid customer experience in a real workplace.

Focus College at Central Okanagan Career & Education Expo 2026
2026-01-29 | Focus College, 13710 94a Ave, Surrey, BC, V3V 1N1, Canada
Focus College joined the Central Okanagan Career & Education Expo 2026 at the Coast Capri Hotel in Kelowna, and the place was buzzing.
With 45+ exhibitors in the room, attendees got a real snapshot of what employers are hiring for right now, plus info on career programs and opportunities to start (or level up) their education through post-secondary options.
At our booth, the top fan-favorites were Community Support Worker, Virtual Assistant, and Bylaw Enforcement Level 1 & 2, lots of great convos with people exploring practical, job-ready pathways. Big thanks to Black Press for running a well-organized event, and to everyone who stopped by to connect with our team.

Food Handler Safety Training
2026-01-27 | Focus College, 13710 94a Ave, Surrey, BC, V3V 1N1, Canada
Food Handler Safety Training is an engaging, hands-on course that meets British Columbia food handler training requirements. The training was delivered at WorkBC Abbotsford on January 27, 2026, and is designed for anyone who prepares, handles, or serves food in a professional setting.
Certification details:
After completing the course, students will complete the final exam later through the government website. Upon successful completion, they receive a Food Handler Certificate that is valid for 5 years and recognized by public health authorities across British Columbia.
By the end of the program, students can demonstrate the ability to:
Prevent food-borne illness through safe handling practices
Comply with BC food safety regulations and standards
Improve workplace safety and reduce contamination risks
Increase customer confidence through safe food service
Prevent cross-contamination between food, surfaces, and utensils
Apply proper personal hygiene to avoid contamination
Maintain regular cleaning and sanitizing of equipment and food-contact surfaces
For more information about food safety training please make a call (778) 624-2010

New Leadership Roles & Student Affairs Update
2026-01-05 | Focus College, 13710 94a Ave, Surrey, BC, V3V 1N1, Canada
January 2026
Focus College is proud to announce a series of leadership appointments and internal advancements, effective January 2026. These changes reflect our continued commitment to academic excellence, operational strength, global engagement, and, most importantly, an elevated student experience.
Please join us in congratulating the following Focus family members on their well-deserved promotions:

Umar Durrani – Vice President, Global Engagement & Partnerships
Dr. Sandeep Sandhu – Vice President, Admissions and Registrar
Gaylyne Archibald – Director, Academic Administration
Syed Hasnain Ali – Director, Operations and HR

These appointments strengthen our leadership framework and position Focus College for sustainable growth, deeper partnerships, and enhanced institutional effectiveness.

Student Experience Comes First: Introducing Student Affairs
To further enhance the student journey, Focus College has combined Student Services and Student Engagement into a unified Student Affairs department. This strategic move is designed to streamline support, improve coordination, and deliver a more holistic, student-centered experience from enrollment to graduation.
The Student Affairs team will be led by:

Prabhsharan Kaur – Student Affairs Lead
Kayla Tso – Student Affairs Coordinator
Arvind Kaur – Student Affairs Coordinator

This integrated approach ensures our students receive consistent, responsive, and meaningful support, academically, socially, and professionally. As we move into 2026, these leadership updates mark an important step forward in Focus College’s evolution. We’re building stronger teams, clearer pathways, and a future-ready institution, together.

Your Future… Our Focus

Work Fluent Training Program (Nov–Dec) Successfully Completed
2025-12-22 | Focus College, 13710 94a Ave, Surrey, BC, V3V 1N1, Canada
Today, we proudly celebrate the conclusion of our Work Fluent Training Program at Focus College.
Over the past six weeks, students took part in an intensive, hands-on learning experience focused on building real-world workplace readiness. Due to the Christmas holiday season, afternoon classes concluded slightly earlier than planned, allowing students and staff to transition smoothly into the year-end break while still completing all core learning outcomes.
Throughout the program, students developed essential workplace skills, including professional communication and grammar, resume and cover letter writing, customer service best practices, workplace safety awareness, and the effective use of digital tools such as Zoom and LinkedIn. The training also emphasized interview preparation, workplace culture, teamwork, and digital etiquette, key competencies needed to succeed in today’s professional environments.
This program was designed to be practical, career-focused, and immediately applicable. By the end of the six weeks, students gained greater confidence, clarity, and fluency in navigating modern workplaces.
We congratulate all participants on their dedication and progress and wish them continued success as they move forward in their career journeys. More programs and upcoming intakes will be announced soon.

Food Handler Safety Training
2025-11-17 | Focus College, 13710 94a Ave, Surrey, BC, V3V 1N1, Canada
Keeping Our Community Safe, One Plate at a Time
Focus College proudly hosted the Food Handler Safety Training event this November 2025 at our Abbotsford campus. The Food Handler Safety Training program at Focus College provides an interactive learning experience for all food industry workers and future professionals in British Columbia.
Food safety exists beyond being a legal requirement because it represents a fundamental duty of care. The training program provides participants who work in restaurants and cafes and food trucks and community kitchens and childcare centers with essential knowledge to maintain food safety standards and defend their customers’ health.
The training program receives recognition from BC public health authorities because it fulfills necessary provincial food handler training standards. The training program provides an interactive learning experience that delivers simple content to help students achieve their success
Students who finish the course must move to the government website to take their official final assessment. Students who succeed in the exam will obtain a Food Handler Certificate which serves as proof of their competence for five years and enhances their job prospects and professional credibility.
The program teaches students to develop essential skills which include:

Prevent food-borne illnesses
Meet regulatory food requirements
Enhance workplace safety
Increase customer confidence
Prevent cross-contamination
Understand the importance of person hygiene to prevent contamination
Understand the importance of regular cleaning and sanitizing equipment, surfaces, and utensils

The training program at Focus college enables students to develop food safety awareness which makes them dependable workers in all food service environments.
The program schedule along with enrollment procedures and additional training sessions will be announced in the future. The program enables you to develop your skills while making yourself more attractive to employers while safeguarding our community through safe food preparation.

Focus College Won 2025 BCAMA Marketing Excellence Award
2025-11-13 | Focus College, 13710 94a Ave, Surrey, BC, V3V 1N1, Canada
Focus College received the Marketing Excellence Award 2025 for Inclusive Marketing which demonstrates our institutional growth and educational leadership in British Columbia.
Our organization competed against major provincial leaders including Metropolis at Metrotown, UBC, TransLink, Vancouver Whitecaps FC, Fortis BC, ICBC and Creator.co and Tourism Richmond and Colliers and Audain Art Museum and WILL for this year’s finalist position. Our strategy and execution quality and digital performance and measurable outcomes for diverse communities led to our victory against these established brands.
The BC Chapter of the American Marketing Association judges assessed our marketing strategy and execution quality and digital performance and measurable outcomes which demonstrated our impact on various community groups. The recognition from the judges proves Focus College has moved beyond basic participation in BC education to create a new standard for modern inclusive education marketing.
Dr. Dana Bina presented a statement at the event which expressed the essence of this achievement: The modern world bases its influence on three essential factors which include being relevant and innovative and building authentic relationships with people. Our marketing approach follows the same principles as our educational methods by using human-focused data-driven strategies for future-oriented success. The award represents a broader mission which focuses on transforming educational community interactions throughout British Columbia and Canada.
The President and Vice President of Focus College deserve our appreciation because they supported innovative concepts and enabled progressive marketing approaches. Our organization’s progress depends on their leadership.
The Focus College team members receive this award as their collective achievement. Their combined skills and commitment and innovative thinking converted strategic plans into actual results.
The achievement marks a significant achievement but it marks the beginning of FC new journey. Focus College has only begun its journey.

Work Fluent Training Program
2025-10-31 | Focus College, 13710 94a Ave, Surrey, BC, V3V 1N1, Canada
On Friday, October 31st, we celebrate the successful completion of Focus College’s Work Fluent Training Program, a six-week, hands-on program designed to prepare students for real-world professional success.
Over the past weeks, participants have gained vital employability and communication skills to help them stand out in competitive workplaces. The program focused on developing strong English communication and grammar, professional writing (including resumes, cover letters, and email etiquette), and customer service excellence. Students also learned about workplace safety, digital collaboration tools like Zoom and LinkedIn, and interview preparation through simulated real-world scenarios.

Beyond technical skills, the Work Fluent Training Program emphasizes workplace culture, teamwork, problem-solving, and digital professionalism, empowering students to confidently enter diverse industries with the skills, mindset, and confidence employers value.
This program reflects Focus College’s commitment to career-focused education, where every learner develops not just academic knowledge but practical, future-ready skills that lead to success in today’s evolving job market.

WorkBC Customer Service Training Delivered by Focus College
2025-10-20 | Focus College, 13710 94a Ave, Surrey, BC, V3V 1N1, Canada
The WorkBC in Abbotsford received Customer Service Training from Focus College during October 2025 which taught participants effective communication and problem-solving methods for delivering exceptional customer service in modern service-based environments.
The training program taught participants to listen actively while showing empathy and resolve conflicts through professional communication methods. The training included practical activities which allowed participants to develop their skills for managing challenging customer situations that occur both face-to-face and through digital channels.
The training session taught participants to develop their confidence while working as a team by maintaining composure and delivering solutions and respect during all customer interactions. The program concluded with participants showing enhanced communication abilities and better comprehension of how excellent service delivery affects customer happiness and organizational achievement.
WorkBC and Focus College maintain their partnership to deliver career development programs and workforce readiness training and community-based education throughout British Columbia. The college maintains its dedication to teaching useful competencies which help people advance their careers and deliver exceptional service through its ongoing partnerships with organizations.

From Classroom to Career: Stephanie’s CSW Success Story
2025-09-11 | Focus College, 13710 94a Ave, Surrey, BC, V3V 1N1, Canada
My time at Focus College was more than just an academic experience-it was a transformative chapter that shaped my path into community support work. I had the privilege of learning under two incredible instructors, Kelly and Alwin. Both brought passion and depth to their teaching, but it was Kelly who truly stood out. She didn’t just teach from the textbook-she brought grassroots wisdom into the classroom, giving us a real-world understanding of the people we would be supporting. Her dedication ensured that every student received a practicum placement, and it was through her guidance that I found mine.
Although I was the last in my class to secure a placement, I couldn’t have asked for a better opportunity. I was placed at PIERS (Partners in Resources), where Angie became another phenomenal mentor. Her hands-on approach and compassionate leadership helped me grow immensely. As my practicum ended, PIERS offered me a position, and I was thrilled to continue working with them-even if it was only for 12 hours a week. In a beautiful twist of fate, one of my classmates spoke highly of me to the manager at Premium Productions, where they had completed their own practicum. That recommendation led to an interview, and I was offered a position immediately. Though it was difficult to leave PIERS, needed to pursue a role that offered more hours and stability. I’ll always be grateful for the foundation PIERS gave me and the incredible people who helped me along the way.

From classroom lessons to real-life impact, my journey has been guided by inspiring mentors and supportive peers. I’m proud to be a community support worker, and I carry the lessons of Focus College with me every day.” __Stephanie Carter

Last Call: CSW September Intake
2025-09-09 | Focus College, 13710 94a Ave, Surrey, BC, V3V 1N1, Canada
Focus College is now accepting final applications for the Community Support Worker (CSW) Program starting this September. This in-demand, 7-month program prepares students for meaningful careers in social services, education assistance, mental health, and community care.
With a combination of classroom learning, hands-on training, and real-world practicum experience, graduates are career-ready to support individuals and communities in need. Financial assistance may be available for eligible domestic students.
Secure your spot today and start your journey toward a rewarding future in community support.

Focus College Expands Industry Partnerships
2025-09-01 | Focus College, 13710 94a Ave, Surrey, BC, V3V 1N1, Canada
Focus College is proud to announce new collaborations with leading employers across British Columbia. These partnerships will provide students with exclusive co-op placements, internships, and job opportunities, ensuring a direct pathway from classroom to career.

BC Access Grant Empowers Students
2025-09-01 | Focus College, 13710 94a Ave, Surrey, BC, V3V 1N1, Canada
Jessie Stunner, B.C. Minister of Post-Secondary Education and Future Skills and Surrey-Newton MLA, emphasized the importance of investing in people, stating: “When we support people, we support the economy because people are the economy.”
The B.C. Access Grant has already assisted over 88,000 students, helping save up to $8,000 toward their education. This initiative is crucial in strengthening the economy, enhancing workforce development, and reducing reliance on the U.S.
Focus College encourages eligible students to explore financial support opportunities like the B.C. Access Grant to make education more accessible and career goals more achievable.

Focus College Plans Innovation Centre in BC
2025-08-22 | BC
Sajjad Ali, President & CEO of Focus College, has announced plans to establish the Focus Innovation Centre in British Columbia. This exciting initiative will create a collaborative space for students, industry partners, and entrepreneurs to work together on real-world projects, cutting-edge research, and startup ventures.
The Focus Innovation Centre will provide access to advanced technology, mentorship programs, and industry connections, empowering students to turn ideas into impactful solutions. More details, including location and launch date, will be revealed in the coming months.

CSW Graduate Thrives in Rewarding Senior Care Career
2025-08-21 | Focus College, 13710 94a Ave, Surrey, BC, V3V 1N1, Canada
“I can honestly say that I would not be in my amazing and fulfilling job as a Link Worker with the Seniors Outreach & Resource Centre if I hadn’t attended Focus College’s Community Support Worker program and been placed there for my practicum. I love that I am directly utilizing skills in my role that were taught to me in the course (e.g.: writing case notes, using active listening skills, etc.); that I understand the terms that my co-workers use when they speak about client issues; and that I have knowledge about the aging process to help me understand what our senior clients are going through (such as cognitive/emotional/physical changes and decline).
My training at Focus College has helped me to operate in my position with confidence as I learn even more skills and expand my capabilities. I am happy to be able to contribute to and help seniors in my community, and I am so grateful to Focus College for setting me up for success!”

__Stacey Lalonde

WorkBC Customer Service Training
2025-08-19 | Focus College, 13710 94a Ave, Surrey, BC, V3V 1N1, Canada
A two-day session regrading Customer Service Training was conducted by Prabhsharan Kaur from Focus College at the WorkBC Mission Centre on August 19 and 20, 2025. The session focused on essential communication skills required for effective customer service, including strategies for dealing with both online and in-person customers. Participants explored real-life scenarios, learned how to handle upset or difficult customers, and practiced techniques such as active listening, empathy, and maintaining professionalism. The training aimed to enhance participants’ confidence and readiness to deliver quality customer experiences in various settings.

Focus College Surrey Moves to New Campus
2025-08-18 | Focus College, 13710 94a Ave, Surrey, BC, V3V 1N1, Canada
We are excited to announce that Focus College’s Surrey campus is officially moving to a brand-new, state-of-the-art location! Starting August 30, 2025, all Surrey classes and operations will be held at: 13710 94A Avenue, Surrey, BC V3V 1N1
This modern campus offers enhanced learning spaces, upgraded technology, and improved student facilities to create an even better educational experience. We look forward to welcoming students, faculty, and visitors to our new home!
