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English for Speakers of Other Languages (ESOL)
Whether you are a complete beginner or just need that extra help to make you confident in speaking, reading and writing English, our courses for adults aged 19+ will make you more confident, skilled and independent.
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Joining ESOL English courses with us will help you to improve your quality of life, the ability to carry out every day tasks independently and be able to acquire a job.
Our ESOL tutors will support you to learn the language skills you need to be able to communicate in English. You will learn grammar and punctuation, writing and reading, and speaking and listening.
By taking our ESOL English courses, you will be able to fully interact with people in your everyday life, whether it is going to the supermarket, sorting out your banking, or going to the Doctors. We have short courses that will develop your skills and create more opportunities for your future. Our courses are a safe and welcoming space for you to learn. You will have a chance to make new friends in class and in the community.
Are ESOL courses free?
If you meet certain eligibility criteria (i.e., residency status and benefits) then your course could be what we call “fully funded” meaning, there would be no cost to you. For more information please call 0800 988 0308
Learner Voice! Meet Angel
Angel (On Ki Lui) joined our ESOL courses at Oadby in September 2023. She went on to join an ESOL Work Skills course later that same year and used the skills she learned on both courses to start volunteering in her local community. In summer of 2024 Angel sat down for an interview with us to talk about her learning experience and how it has helped her. Angel had this to add:
First of all, I would like to say thank you to my teacher Wessam. She is a really good teacher, she can realize what we need and encourage us to keep improving our English. I have learned English since Sep last year. I learned a lot about different cultures in this class. I learned a lot of different vocabulary. I can have a chance to speak and listen to English through this class. I was not confident to speak before I joined this class. I think that I improved my listening and speaking because I started to chat with my neighbours, doctors and local people. […] I think that this class was very useful for me because I had the opportunity to practice and learn English. This is very good for me to settle in the UK and I can meet some new friends as well. I enjoy this English class so much. I hope that I can have a job in the future.
Learner Voice! Meet Mandy
Mandy (Sze Man Wong) moved to the UK in March 2023 from Hong Kong, joined one of our ESOL courses the following October and later went on to complete an ESOL Work Skills course at Oadby Library. Mandy had this to say about her Tutor and her learning:
[…] I feel more confident in using English in daily life now even in finding a job. Additionally, [Tutor] recommended us to join the Work Skills class and the sessions on writing CVs, cover letters and preparing for interview questions were very helpful. Previously, I have applied for many jobs without receiving any interview opportunities, however, I received my first interview invitation a few days ago. Although the result is uncertain but it still encourages me a lot.
I want to take this opportunity to thank [Tutor] for [her] guidance and support. I remember the relaxed gathering organized at a café with former and current students during Christmas. It was really a rare chance to make new friends and practice English conversation, especially for those of us who have recently settled in the UK. Thank you once again for everything.
Mandy was eventually offered the job she applied for; answering over 20 interview questions, most of which she had already practiced or prepared through he ESOL Work Skills course. Watch the video to find out more about Mandy’s journey.
ESOL Courses

ESOL
Skills and topics depend on what you need to learn for life, community and work. You will discuss your needs with your tutor and have your own learning plan.
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ESOL Summer School
Our ESOL Summer School will allow learners who require short courses to bridge the gap between levels an opportunity to get ahead. These courses will be available for enrolment in 2025.
More information on ESOL Summer SchoolSpecialist ESOL Courses

ESOL Driving Test Theory
This short course is for learners who want to take their Driving Test and need to improve their English to do so. The topics cover road safety; differences of driving in other countries and the UK; reading road signs; parts of a car.
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ESOL Everyday Tech Essentials
If English is not your first language and if you have little or no experience of using computers, this course will help you to become better at using IT and help you to learn the English words you will need when using IT.
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ESOL Work Skills
Do you need extra some extra help with useful words and terms used at work? This short course will cover words often used at work, names of equipment used, how to answer the phone, Job search, CVs, application forms, and interviews.
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ESOL Customer Service
Do you want to work in customer service? This course will provide you with the knowledge required by employers to work in a range of different environments in a customer service role. It is best suited to individuals whose first language is not English.
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ESOL Study Skills
Are you an ESOL learner? Do you want to work improve your study skills? This course will help you learn more effectively and efficiently. You will be able to absorb and retain more information in less time.
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ESOL Wellbeing
This course is for those looking to learn vocabulary for everyday English around health and well-being. All classes are face to face. This course is aimed at improving confidence and developing language skills.
More information on ESOL WellbeingOther courses you may be interested in

Employability Skills
Our Employability courses are specially designed to support those learners wishing to gain skills and qualifications to directly support them to improve, or gain, employment opportunities.
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Digital Skills
Whether you are a complete beginner or want to grow your skills we have something for you! Our courses can give you both recognised qualifications that employers are looking for, and useful skills for everyday life.
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English and Maths
Whether you are looking to brush-up on the basics, grow your confidence, or gain a qualification, our English and maths courses give you with the knowledge, skills and support you need to succeed.
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Learning for Wellbeing
Discover a new passion for creativity or get fitter this year by taking part in a course from the Learning for Wellbeing programme. On our courses, you will find a like-minded, supportive community, build confidence, make new friendships and a lot more.
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Apprenticeships and Work Based Learning
We have a track record of delivering a high quality and flexible work-based training services to employers which include the delivery of: apprenticeship standards, standalone and wider skills qualifications, and wellbeing courses.
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Family Learning
Family Learning classes are taught at libraries, Children’s Family and Wellbeing Centres, schools, online and in the community. Courses are designed to help you support your child’s education journey, by learning how your child is taught in school while you also develop your own knowledge.
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Languages
Learning a new language provides you with a new appreciation of diverse cultures and a new skill that can be used for business, work, holidays, and family life.
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British Sign Language
British Sign Language (BSL) is used by approximately 150,000 people in the UK. Learning BSL is a powerful skill which allows you to communicate with deaf colleagues, friends and family.
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