Royal Leamington Spa College began offering English language lessons for refugee students in summer 2022, 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 within a supportive, educational setting.

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 to the UK has recently begun studying for the IELTS test at the college, to enable her to resume her healthcare work in the UK.

Another student from Ukraine is making use of the college’s wide-ranging vocational provision and flexible course model which allows her to study Digital Support Services alongside her English Language course, whilst an Afghan student is currently attending our IELTS classes in order to resume her career as a GP doctor in the UK.

The college’s roll-on, roll-off model gives learners choice and flexibility in selecting the hours and course structure that suits their needs so they can develop their skills at a suitable pace.

All learners are supported throughout their course, with each student having an individual learning plan and a class tutor providing support and regular feedback on progress.

The college’s student services provides both pastoral and academic support with everything from finances and wellbeing to UCAS applications and personal statements.

The college also works in close partnership with the local County Council and the Coordinator for the Warwickshire Refugee Resettlement Scheme to widen access and ensure all learners, including refugee students feel supported in and outside of the classroom.

Carlos Rodriguez, the college’s International Academic Manager, leads the English language program and has been with WCG for 19 years.

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 wcg.ac.uk/englishlanguageschool