English for Speakers of Other Languages (ESOL)

The English for Speakers of Other Languages (ESOL) course is designed for people whose first language is not English, but who live or work permanently in the UK. The course gives you the opportunity to develop your grammar, vocabulary, pronunciation, speaking, listening, reading and writing skills, as well as aspects of citizenship and employability. The ESOL qualification is recognised by the UK Border Agency for use to support Home Office applications for Settlement and British Citizenship.

Students will have regular progress tests throughout their studies and will have individual tutorials with their tutor to discuss their learning and development.  Students are expected to complete homework every week and will be prepared for their exams, which are compulsory.

How will I learn?

Students will develop all aspects of their English, including grammar, vocabulary, pronunciation and the four skills (reading, writing, speaking, listening), working in pairs & small groups to develop fluency.  Students will have regular progress tests throughout their studies and will have individual tutorials with their tutor to discuss their learning and development.  Students are expected to complete homework every week and will be prepared for their exams, which are compulsory.

When are the classes?     

Both day and evening classes are offered, with 6 hours’ per week, over two days.

Your course also includes up to 12 hours’ free classes taught by trainee teachers.

Assessment

Students are prepared for nationally recognised ESOL Skills for Life examinations . The exams are offered at five different levels:

Entry 1, Entry 2, Entry 3, Level 1, Level 2.
Exam dates – December, March and June

What level of English will I study?

Before you start a class you will be invited to college to take an assessment. The assessment will show us your level of English. You will be offered a place in the class best suited to your level if there are places available.

What exams will I take?    

Students are prepared for nationally recognised Trinity ESOL Skills for Life examinations. The exams are offered at five different levels:  Entry 1, Entry 2, Entry 3, Level 1 and Level 2.

Entry to this course is dependent on the result of a written and oral assessment at the start of the course, and on the availability of places. The assessment will determine which class is the most suitable for you, and an individual learning plan will be agreed with the class tutor. The minimum age for enrolment on the part-time ESOL programme is 16 years old.

Students will need a pen, notebook and folder. Students will need to purchase an English learner dictionary (We recommend the Longman active study dictionary or the Oxford Advanced Learners Dictionary; prices range from £15 – £20). Students will need to pay for their exam.

These qualifications are nationally recognised and are welcomed by employers in the UK or by education establishments for further study.

Course progression includes further study in English. Progression onto further and higher education at level 3 and above in a variety of subject areas, including Access to Higher Education, Business, IT, Construction, Hair and Beauty, and Creative Industries.

How much will the course cost?

ESOL courses cost you less because the government pays part of your course.  For this reason, you MUST take an exam at the end of your course.  The costs vary depending on how many exams you take (NOT on the number of hours you study).  The cost for two qualifications (Speaking & Listening, Reading and/or Writing) will be approximately £400 to £650.  If you take THREE qualifications, it will cost approximately £750.  If you do a Speaking & Listening exam, the fees include the cost of the course books that you will use during your studies.  Otherwise, you will need to pay an extra £53 for the books at the start of your course.

If you claim a Benefit

If you are in receipt of an income tested benefit the course may be cheaper or free. You will need to bring up to date evidence of the benefit you receive into college so that we can assess the fees you will need to pay. If you do not provide evidence then the full cost of the course must be paid. If you are under the age of 19 the course may be free; you need to show proof of your age.

If you pay for your studies

You should make full payment for the course when you register and before you attend class.  Alternatively, you can pay in instalments (plus an administrative charge), but you will be charged the full fee even if you do not complete the course. Failure to pay will result in you not being able to attend college and your place will be given to another person.

Many students at Colchester Institute are under 18.  In the English Language department, we have a mixture: some students are under 18 and some are adults.  You may be in a class with some adult students. They will welcome you and help you with your studies. Your teachers will also work hard to keep you safe.

Commitment to Safeguarding

Colchester Institute believes the health and safety of all our students is important.  All of the English Language staff are trained to help keep students safe, happy and healthy in college.

Well-being and keeping safe

Bullying [using words or actions to make someone feel bad] is not allowed in the college.  The College is committed to making our classes a place where all students are respected and where bullying is not allowed.  If a student has a problem or complaint, we will listen to them and work to solve the problem quickly and fairly.

What should I do if I have a problem?

If a student has a problem or complaint they should speak to their teacher or the Student Services Welfare Team (B66a, Ground Floor, Main Building, Colchester Institute).   At The College at Braintree, please go to Student Services A56.  Student Services are very good at solving students’ problems.

We hope you will enjoy your studies with us and that you will always feel safe and happy to study here.

You need to arrange where you are going to live during your studies before you arrive in the UK. Colchester Institute is able to offer accommodation to students but it is limited depending on demand.