English for Speakers of Other Languages


Do you want to improve your English?


Welcome to English for Speakers of Other Languages. At ACRES you will find:
• friendly classes
• experienced and helpful tutors
• classes for everyone from beginners to advanced

What is ESOL?


ESOL is for people living in the UK who do not have English as a first language. It provides preparation for further ESOL or mainstream study and/or employment. ESOL can be studied at different levels:

* Entry Level 1 (Beginners)
* Entry Level 2
* Entry Level 3
* Level 1
* Level 2 (Advanced)

What does it involve?


Students will study all the ESOL skills - speaking/listening/reading and writing. ESOL is designed to help students with everyday life, work or study. All courses are part funded by the UK government and therefore regular attendance and the ability to complete the course are essential.

Are there exams?


Yes. Every class will work towards a City & Guilds ESOL exam. These are nationally recognised qualifications in the UK. Students will be given the opportunity to sit one exam in speaking and listening/reading/writing.

Can I study Citizenship in Entry Level ESOL classes?


Yes. All Entry Level classes include citizenship.A letter will be issued to students needing the citizenship element of the course after 29 weeks of classes for the Home Office provided students have attended a minimum of 80% of lessons. If you need a specific ESOL exam for your application such as speaking and listening, it is your responsibility to let the ESOL Curriculum Co ordinator know as soon as possible. ACRES can not give help or advice on applications to the UK Borders Agency and can not guarantee that taking the course will mean that an application will be successful.

How much will it cost?


Please see individual classes for course costs.

Reduced rates are available for those who qualify under the ACRES concessionary fees policy, please ring the ACRES Office on 01825 761820 for more details on this.

If you would like to learn English but are worried about the course costs, we may be able to help you providing that you are eligible for the course and have been resident in the UK for over a year. Please contact the ACRES office and ask for ESOL Student Support information.

Am I eligible for ESOL classes?


ESOL courses are open to all EU adults and non-EU adults providing they meet the eligibility criteria. Please contact the ACRES Office for more details.

What can I do afterwards?


You can continue your English studies at the next ESOL level or, for more advanced students, progress to GCSE English. ACRES can also help signpost you to other courses that may be helpful or of interest.

How can I join an ESOL class?


If you are new to ACRES, you will need to be assessed before you join a class to make sure that it's the best class for you. Current students will not need to be assessed, but will need to contact the ACRES Office over the summer to enrol for September. Please note that we need minimum numbers for courses to run.

If you would like to join us or would just like more information, please contact the ACRES Office on 01825 761820.