Our teaching methodology is based on the most recent ideas in language learning and teaching. Our teachers are constantly looking for new and effective ways of teaching English and regularly take part in development training sessions.

Lessons take place in English to give you the maximum possible exposure to the language. The format of the lessons will vary: sometimes the focus will be on reading, writing, speaking and listening skills, sometimes it will be on grammar, pronunciation, vocabulary and other aspects of language learning.

You will often be working in pairs or groups with other students. This will allow everyone in the class to participate in activities at the same time. At first you may find it strange to speak English with other students, but you will soon get used to it and it is an excellent way of maximising the amount of time you have in class to speak the language.

Key skills

			Speaking You will spend much your time in class speaking.  During speaking activities your teacher will sometimes correct you a lot, for example during grammar practice.  On other occasions, for example when you are taking part in a role play, you won’t be corrected as the teacher will want you to focus more on fluency and communicating your ideas.  A balance of accuracy and fluency in speaking will help you to become successful language learners and improve your spoken English.
			Listening Practice in listening is very important, and to ensure that you listen to a wide range of spoken English, your teacher will ask you to listen to cassettes, videos, DVDs and CD-ROMs.
			Reading Reading activities in class will expose you to a wide range of different types of texts (newspaper articles, letters, short stories, advertisements, brochures, etc.).  We also encourage you to read outside the classroom as much as possible.  As a student you will have free membership of the British Council Study Centre and will be able to choose from a wide variety of books suitable for your particular level.
			Writing Writing skills are practised in the classroom and sometimes you will be asked to complete a writing task at home.  Sometimes preparation for homework is done in the classroom and homework can often be used for correction and work to improve your accuracy in English.

As well as practising the above skills, you will also work on your grammar, vocabulary and pronunciation in class, as these areas are vital in helping you improve your proficiency in English.

Learner autonomy
We believe that students learn in different ways and it is important to find out the way/ways that work best for you.  Your teacher will encourage you to reflect on how you learn.

Counselling
During each term of study you will have two chances to discuss your progress with your teacher, who will be able to advise you on the best strategies for improving your English – in the middle of a course – and what your next level should be.  Our teachers are, of course, always willing to discuss individual needs with any student.

Assessment
During the course you will be assessed by your teacher in the form of 3-4 assessed tasks.  These will be used to determine your progress during the course and you can discuss this with your teacher in the counselling sessions mentioned above.