Our ESOL classes help speakers of other languages grow in confidence for everyday life and work

ESOL or English for Speakers of Other Languages (ESOL) classes are designed for adults aged nineteen years or over who currently live in Surrey. The classes help learners improve their understanding and skills in English to enable them to make a life in the UK.

Classes are held twice a week and at the end of term learners take an exam to enable them to progress to the next level. The courses are lively and promote communication and the sharing of views. Surrey Adult Learning delivers specialised courses led by qualified and inspirational tutors. Outcomes are very encouraging, and we are proud to support learners that want to progress, feel confident and in many cases gain employment.

Learner 'M' has been attending courses with Surrey Adult Learning since 2018, shortly after she arrived in the UK as an Iranian refugee. She has progressed from Pre-Entry level (course) and currently attends the Entry 2 ESOL class at the Camberley Centre. She is keen to settle in the UK, make a life for herself here in the community and learn English to improve her employment prospects.

The Pre-Entry class introduces learners to vocabulary they are likely to hear in social situations and so they are taught to introduce themselves, write their name and demonstrate knowledge of the English alphabet. This course enabled "M" to introduce herself to others in the class and begin to form friendships in the UK. She worked hard in her Pre-Entry class and was thus able to move to up to Entry 1.

The Entry 1 class encourages learners to be able to read a simple text, write sentences, and use basic punctuation. The topics are designed to help learners with daily life in the UK. Tolerance and respect are highlighted, and festivals and events celebrated in all cultures are covered in lessons. This course helped "M" fill out a job application form and attend a job interview.

Entry level learners are required to sit exams in 3 modules: reading, writing, and speaking/listening. "M" passed her exams and was thus able to move to the Entry 2 class in September 2021.

ESOL classes were a "game changer" for learner "M" who made progress, got a job and is now earning money. She sees the benefits of working, 'It will help my English and I can make new friends.' She loves baking and would like to go on to a cookery course with SAL, 'But I need more English.' She is also doing an online food hygiene course and will take an exam shortly.