How Bury College provides ESOL learners with an introduction to life in the UK

ESOL (English as a Second Language) learners from our Step Up to Prospects course recently celebrated their achievements over the last year.

For many, these few months have been their first within the UK. At the event, each student was celebrated for their hard work and achievements in their studies and outside college.

The learners are from across the world and the curriculum focuses on embracing British culture, building positive relationships with peers and living independently. They will also start to develop employment skills. It aims to be an immersive experience where learning English is fun and engaging throughout.

The modules they have studied throughout the year are:

• Preparing for the Future
• Health and Fitness
• Law in the UK
• Entry Level 1 and 2 English
• Entry Level 1 and 2 Maths

Melissa Kirkham, Personalised Learning Co-ordinator at Bury College, said: “I am so proud of all our learners. Despite facing challenges outside of their control, they have all found a love for education. It has been so rewarding teaching them. They started the year not knowing any letters, sounds, or words in English. They can now communicate with others and achieve qualifications. Most importantly, they will start to thrive in the UK.

"As tutors, we have had so much fun delivering the course; playing sports, cooking, using appliances that would be found in a house in the UK, and opening our Fast Fashion Pop-Up Shop. It has enabled the students to learn a variety of skills that they will need to continue their life in the UK. To see their appreciation during our celebration event was not only heart-warming but illustrated the burst of pride felt by all staff and the students towards each other.”

One of the students, Mohammed Gharsali, really enjoyed the start of his Bury College journey and his introduction to life in the UK. He said: “I love Bury College because I have made new friends and have the best teacher that helps me.”

Eliza Maximov also loved the course. She said: “The course has been great and very fun. I have improved my speaking and writing skills and have become a lot more confident with the language.”

On this programme, the culture and individuality of the learners is celebrated, emotional support is given. Everyone is also encouraged to take part in extracurricular activities. Visit the course page for more information.