Tag: ESOL

English classes for New Scots

Scots to settle into life in Scotland

Refugees, people seeking asylum and other forced migrants in Glasgow are benefitting from English classes to help them integrate into communities, supported by £500,000 in Scottish Government funding which will help 800 learners.

The classes are helping people who have been forced to flee their country gain the language skills needed to rebuild their lives in Scotland, communicate confidently with people in their new communities and establish and strengthen their social connections.

On a visit to Glasgow Clyde College, Equalities Minister Kaukab Stewart met people who are benefitting from the classes.

Equalities Minister Kaukab Stewart said: “Scotland has a proud history of welcoming people of all nationalities and faiths, including those seeking sanctuary from war and persecution. We’re committed to helping those who find refuge in Scotland to settle into their new communities.

“As a refugee or a person seeking asylum whose first language is not English, having the opportunity to learn English opens up a world of possibilities – from being able to interact confidently with people, to taking part in community events and making new friends.

“Learning English will also make the process of finding work easier, which I know is a key priority for many New Scots.”

“It was great to visit Glasgow Clyde College to meet some of the people who are benefitting from these classes and hear about the real difference that language skills are making to their lives.”

Karzan Mahmood from Iraq said: “Learning English has meant everything to me. When I was in my country I couldn’t go to school or college.

“When I came here I actually couldn’t write a word. I started in a class for beginners. The teachers have been brilliant, really helpful, unbelievable. Now I can write paragraphs, formal and informal emails, everything like that.

“I’m in the Intermediate class now. Next year I want to go to Upper Intermediate and then look for work in IT or accounting.”

Sohail Siraj from Pakistan said: “I am nearly halfway through my Higher English (ESOL) lessons at Glasgow Clyde College and so far it’s been an amazing experience with a great learning environment.

“The teacher himself has a very calm and cool manner and I love the way he teaches, always motiving and at the same time testing your limits. I love every minute of my time spent here and I wish there were more than two classes a week.

“Being there simply lifts my spirits and motivates me to do more.”

Nataliia Yanishevska from Ukraine said: “Participating in the Higher English (ESOL) course at Clyde College has been incredibly beneficial for both my volunteering activities and daily life.

“The course improved my confidence in communicating effectively in English, enabling me to lead workshops and engage with diverse groups. It also strengthened my skills for everyday interactions and professional growth.”

Everyday English at Fresh Start

Please share with your networks, co-workers and anyone you work with who could benefit from Everyday English classes, held in a welcoming and informal setting at Fresh Start Hub, 28-30 Ferry Road Drive.

Tuesday mornings – 9.15am-10.45am – Improvers English

Thursday mornings – 10am-12pm – Beginners English

These classes are run by qualified ESOL teachers and are designed to help people practice learning English at beginner level (Thursdays) and at intermediate level (Tuesdays)

Attendance is not mandatory, but it is useful if people wish to practice and progress.

For more information and to sign people up, email abigail@freshstartweb.org.uk

Call for volunteers to to end immigrants’ isolation

Image 1Edinburgh College is recruiting a small army of volunteers to teach English in people’s homes, as part of a scheme to support people who cannot get to a classroom.

Predominantly used by refugees, immigrants and asylum seekers, the Edinburgh College Home Learning Scheme supports those who would like a better grasp of the English language and UK culture. This includes mothers with young children or members of the community who are unable to attend college for other reasons, such as ill health or unsociable working hours.

With almost one million immigrants living in the UK who do not speak a basic level of English, the Learning Scheme can provide vital language skills to allow people to have a better quality of life.

Before taking on the role as an English tutor, volunteers receive hands-on training from specialist English for speakers of other languages (ESOL) staff at Edinburgh College. This includes practical teaching tips, intercultural communication and awareness of cultural sensitivities. Throughout the course, volunteers are supported by a lecturer and attend regular training days.

Rose McKendry, a volunteer at the Edinburgh College Home Learning Scheme, said: “Teaching students from other countries and nationalities has given me an insight into how different life is and how strange it must be for people when they first come here. I now have a deeper sympathy and understanding for people who do not speak the language or understand our customs.”

Jean Howat, ESOL lecturer at Edinburgh College, said: “We are very excited to be recruiting our next round of dedicated volunteers. We are looking for volunteers from all walks of life who would like to use their communication skills to help those who are most in need of tuition. Previous volunteers have included students from university and college, retired teachers and those who simply want to give back to the community and meet new and interesting people.

“Teaching immigrants, refugees and asylum seekers can have many benefits. Volunteers can open themselves up to a new culture and way of life, and learn what it’s like to integrate into Scottish society. For many of our students, learning English can help them to go about their daily lives, such as learning how to fill out doctor’s forms and filling out application forms for a job. It can also help people to integrate within their local community and put an end to feelings of isolation.”