EFL Course Information

 

Main EFL Classes

Levels
Our language courses are offered at four levels; Elementary, Intermediate, Upper Intermediate and Advanced.

Please note that classes may not be available at all levels each term. All applicants will be asked to complete a placement test to determine their current level of English before an offer of a place is made.

Your level is then confirmed when you arrive by a further assessment test and interview.

Hours and Timetable
You study between 15 - 18 hours per week depending on your level. This is made up of General English and additional studies including Culture and Exam Practice.

How many students will be in my class, and will there be any from my country?

Main EFL classes have a maximum size of 15 students. However, in general most classes average 12- 15 students.

We take students from a wide variety of countries and there will be a good mix of nationalities in most classes. We ensure that there will not be too many students of the same nationality in one class.

Course Content
General English classes include:

  • speaking (including pronunciation)
  • reading and writing
  • listening
  • grammar
  • vocabulary development

We teach you to use both formal and informal English to communicate with others, in a range of situations.

Classes take place between Monday and Friday. You will usually have classes every day, although you may have more classes on some days than on others.

Additional Studies
Apart from General English you will have the opportunity to follow additional studies. These vary depending on your level but may include:

  • Exam Preparation (FCE, CAE, PET, IELTS)
  • Information Technology
  • Pronunciation
  • Aspects of Britain; culture and literature
  • Songs

The choices will vary from year to year and are usually for 1 or 2 hours per week. You may also be able to join other classes in the College, and study alongside British students.

Sample Timetable

Sample Timetable
View a large version of the Sample Timetable (Opens in new window)

Part-time EFL

Three hour classes for people living in and around Colchester are offered throughout the week. Classes are offered at Intermediate, Upper Intermediate, Advanced and Proficiency levels. Day of attendance will depend on your level of English. Part-time classes can have a maximum of 15 students.

Your level is decided when you arrive using a simple assessment test and interview. Classes usually start at 10.00am and finish at 1.15pm. Many students go on to take an exam in June. If there is sufficient demand, we also offer evening classes.

English for Special Purposes

Separate English classes can be arranged for groups with special language needs; focusing on language alone, or in combination with other courses at Colchester Institute.

How can I spend my time outside class ?
Throughout the term, the staff organise a small number of social activities. In the past year these have included coach trips to London and Cambridge, a seaside picnic, a bowling evening, a cinema trip, a quiz evening and end of term parties. For some events there is a small charge. There is a thriving International Student Society which also organises events throughout the year.

 
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