ESOL Courses

ESOL Skills for Life qualifications were introduced in September 2004 and are nationally recognised qualifications for students who speak English as a second language. Courses are intended for those who wish to live in Britain and/or intend to spend significant parts of their working life here. They include general English, together with the language skills needed for participating in social and cultural activities, preparation for employment and further education opportunities. The courses are offered at six levels.

Pre-Entry - leads to a national qualification in English for students with very little knowledge of English in at least one skill (reading, writing, speaking or listening).  

Entry 1 - leads to a national qualification in English for those students with very little knowledge of the language. Topics covered include shopping, going to the doctor and everyday life.

Entry 2 - leads to a national qualification in English for students with a basic knowledge of spoken and written English. You will learn how to ask questions, give information and talk about the past and future. You will also learn how to fill in forms and write short letters or stories.

Entry 3 - leads to a national qualification in English for students who can already speak and write in a range of everyday situations. This course will help you improve your knowledge of vocabulary, grammar and pronunciation.

For more advanced students we also offer courses at Level 1 and Level 2.

ESOL Level 1 - leads to a national qualification in English, for those who can speak and write quite fluently in a variety of situations and would like to increase vocabulary and grammar.

ESOL Level 2 - leads to a national qualification, for those who can use complex structures and a variety of vocabulary to describe past, present and future situations, and who would like to extend their ability to express more complex ideas.

IELTS and English for Academic Purposes (Part-Time)

This exam preparation course will prepare you for an IELTS (International English Language Testing Systems) test.

This course is useful if you need to demonstrate your competence in the four areas of speaking, reading, writing and listening, for university entry or for other academic programmes or employment.

Entry Requirements:
No formal qualifications are necessary, but your level of English will be assessed prior to joining the course to ensure that you are placed on the correct course for your needs.

Course Content:
Courses include speaking and listening, reading and writing. In addition, you will learn to apply your language skills in different contexts, including:

  • business
  • employment
  • education
  • social and cultural activities
  • citizenship
  • everyday life.

Assessment:
Internal and external assessment.
Next Steps: Higher level English course, or vocational or academic courses.
Duration: 1 year
Location: Chaffron Way 

IELTS and English for Academic Purposes (Part-Time)

This exam preparation course will prepare you for an IELTS (International English Language Testing Systems) test.

This course is useful if you need to demonstrate your competence in the four areas of speaking, reading, writing and listening, for university entry or for other academic programmes or employment.

Business Chinese (Part-Time)

This course is aimed at professionals who would like to gain a better understanding of Chinese culture and language and to maximise business opportunities in one of the fastest growing markets.

For more information please do not hesitate to contact the International Department on: InternationalStudents@mkcollege.ac.uk