What is ESOL?
ESOL is English for Speakers of Other Languages and is a crucial form of English language teaching and learning.
Meet Sufian
Meet Sufian, an ESOL student at New City College whose determination and ambition are helping him build a bright future. Originally from Bangladesh, Sufian shares how learning English in his ESOL classes opened doors to further study, a part-time job and new opportunities. In this video, he explains how ESOL has given him the confidence to aim for university, pursue a career in software development, make lasting friendships and contribute to college life and his local community.
ESOL learners come from diverse backgrounds and communities. Many are long-term UK residents; others are more recent arrivals. What they share is a need for English language skills to access employment, support their families, engage with public services, and participate in civic life. NCC teaches 4,000 adult ESOL learners each year and 375 16-18 learners. Last year, over 2,000 of our vocational learners had progressed from ESOL to higher level vocational qualifications or work.
Explore English beyond the classroom.
From employability programmes to cultural visits and community projects, ESOL students gain much more than just language skills
At New City College, ESOL courses are not just about learning English. They are designed to help people build the skills, self-belief and knowledge they need to live, study and work successfully in the UK. ESOL students take part in a wide variety of activities outside of the classroom that develop their understanding and knowledge of English language and British culture. They get to take part in they take part in initiatives like the Headstart Skills and Employability Programme, undertake film making, drama and arts projects, lead and organise charity fundraisers and regularly visit places of cultural and educational interest.
New City College
teaches
adult ESOL learners
and last year over 2,000 progressed to higher-level vocational qualifications or employment.
Learn English. Explore Opportunities.
Building confidence and developing skills to thrive in the UK through activities that connect language, culture and community
ESOL students benefit from New City College’s welcoming staff and inclusive campuses where they can build their English skills and confidence. Our courses give them opportunities for learning through educational visits, employer masterclasses, careers events, enrichment activities and community projects. Students gain a deeper understanding of British culture and life in the UK while developing communication, teamwork and employability skills through engaging, interactive lessons. Whether they want to progress to further study, secure employment or feel more confident in everyday situations, our ESOL courses help them take the next step.
Meet Nathalia
For Nathalia, learning English has been the first step towards achieving her ambitions in the UK. Originally from Brazil, she is studying Entry Level 2 ESOL at New City College and has already seen the impact it has had on her life. In this video, Nathalia explains how her ESOL classes have helped her gain confidence and secure a part-time job, while preparing her for a future career in psychology and supporting others with their mental health.
The Impact of Learning.
Overall ESOL achievement rate
New City College boasted a 95.4% achievement rate for ESOL,
reflecting the dedication and success of our learners.
Unlock potential. Achieve Qualifications.
Over a quarter of ESOL students at New City College successfully progress to study English at GCSE Level.
Our learners have transitioned from ESOL to a variety of key qualification pathways, 34% of GCSE maths students have progressed from ESOL, 53% from Functional Skills Maths, and 30% from Functional Skills English. Whether their goal is to achieve essential qualifications, enter higher education, or secure employment, our ESOL courses provide the crucial starting point for their journey.
Don’t Miss the Action.
Stay connected with our social media activity and highlights from across ESOL Takeover Week.