A SOUTH Warwickshire based college is helping refugees learn the lingo.
Leamington College began offering English language lessons for refugee students this summer, and has now welcomed learners from Ukraine, Afghanistan, Iraq and Syria.
The college’s English as a Foreign Language (EFL) department – which last year taught 16 different nationalities – offers courses for students of different abilities to improve their English speaking, listening, reading and writing.
Course options include Skills for Life, General English and GCSE English language as well as specialised preparation for ESOL exams, and for IELTS which non-native English speakers often require for access to UK universities, visa applications, citizenship, and job applications in the UK.
A Ukrainian learner who worked as a dermatologist before leaving her country and settling in the UK has recently begun studying for the IELTS test at the college, to enable her to resume her healthcare work in this country, while an Afghan student is currently attending IELTS classes in order to resume her career as a GP doctor.
Carlos Rodriguez, the college’s International Academic Manager, leads the English language program.
He said: “My role is so rewarding – I really enjoy teaching learners in the classroom and through the program, helping to give everyone the opportunity to learn and succeed through improving their English language skills.
“In teaching them, I also learn so much about their different countries and cultures, and the work they go on to do after the course.”
To learn more about WCG’s English Language courses visit https://wcg.ac.uk/englishlanguageschool
