English for Speakers of Other Languages (ESOL) courses are for young people who live in the UK and who want to improve their English skills in speaking, listening, reading and writing.
You will learn in a friendly and welcoming environment where you will have the opportunity to practise all 4 skills regularly.
You will also study maths and IT as part of your course.
On Entry 3 programmes, you will also complete work experience.
There are no entry requirements but all new learners will complete an initial assessment to make sure that you are placed on the right course for your level of ability. These take place at the college you want to study at and you do not have to prepare for it.
You will be given homework to complete each week and your individual targets will be reviewed regularly by you and your teacher.
You will complete an Ascentis ESOL qualification, a maths qualification and an IT qualification as part of your study programme.
Attendance is essential if you are to succeed on your course and it will be reviewed regularly.
You will be advised of your next steps by your teacher. You can progress into the next level depending on your attendance and whether you pass your exam or achieve your targets.
At Entry 3 and Level 1, you will be encouraged to think about other courses in the college that would support your future job prospects. The areas of learning you can progress to include: Sports, Engineering, Construction, Motor Vehicle, Travel and Tourism, Public Services, Health and Social Care, Hair and Beauty, IT, Art and Design or Media.
You will learn in different ways and your teacher will work closely with you to make sure you get the most out of your course and your progress will be reviewed regularly. We will always encourage you to use your new skills both inside and outside the classroom.
You will study for 15.5 hours per week and you will have regular meetings (tutorials) with your tutor who will help and support you while you are on your course.
You will also get involved with college life and there will be opportunities for you to meet students from other campuses, go on trips outside the college and to learn about topics which include citizenship, safety online, careers and healthy lifestyles.
You will have access to our learning centres where you can use the computers to help with your homework and learning.
School Leavers (16-18)
If you will be 16, 17 or 18 years old on 31 August before your course starts, and you have the legal right to live in the UK for the full length of your study programme, your course will be free.
You may also be eligible for financial help to support with books, travel, course materials and childcare costs â please click here for more information.
