The UK has a
tradition of excellence in teaching the English language and has long led
the world in language-teaching methods. The British Council guarantees the
quality of services at around 370 centres through the English in Britain
Accreditation Scheme. This means that, when you choose an accredited centre,
you can be certain you will be taught by properly qualified teachers in
a properly managed and safe environment.
Students will not usually need any formal qualifications to be accepted
on to an English language course. All courses emphasise learning the language
by using it, not just studying it. Course length varies widely, from days
to years. Assessment methods also vary, from continuous assessment of coursework
to assessment by final exam. You'll also find that many universities and
colleges offer 'support' or 'in-sessional' English courses that provide
additional language and study skills support alongside an academic course,
such as a degree.
| Type of
course |
Description |
Teaching
methods |
| General English |
Courses
at various levels, from complete beginners upwards. Courses available
for both adults and children. |
Vary widely, depending on the
centre, the level of the course and the age of the students. Activities
may include discussions, problem-solving, simulations, and practising
specific language topics. |
| English for academic
purposes (EAP) |
For students
who want to develop the language and skills needed for academic
study. |
Focuses on developing such
skills as essay-writing, note-taking, seminar participation, academic
reading, library work, using a computer and subject-specific vocabulary. |
| Pre-university entrance
English courses |
Designed
to prepare you for study at a specific UK institution, these cover
EAP plus particular study skills for your chosen course. You may
need to take one if your English is below or barely at the level
required for your course. |
Focuses on developing skills
for your chosen course, such as essay-writing, note-taking, seminar
participation, academic reading, library work, using a computer
and subject-specific vocabulary. |
| English for specific
purposes |
These
teach English skills, and the required vocabulary and usage for
the professional fields including: Art, Banking and finance, Computing,
Electronics, Engineering, Executives, Fashion, International trade,
Management, Marketing and public relations, Medicine, Office work,
Pilots and air traffic controllers, Science and technology, Tailor-made
courses (to suit your particular professional needs), Teaching,
Technicians, and Tourism. |
Emphasis is on developing skills
needed in specific professional settings, e.g. from basic telephoning,
report-writing, and presentation skills to business negotiation
and using complex technical language. |
| Vacation courses |
These
are run from June to August (UK summer vacation) or March/April
(UK Easter vacation) and often include holiday activities. Courses
available for both adults and children. |
Vary widely from course to
course. Activities may include discussions, games, problem-solving,
simulations and practising specific language topics |
| Teaching English as a
Foreign Language (TEFL) and Teaching English to Speakers of Other
Languages (TESOL). |
Training
courses for those who wish to teach English to others. |
Courses combining practice
and theory are available at certificate and diploma level . TEFL/TESOL
can be studied up to postgraduate research level. |
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