How ESOL leads to other opportunities

Initial Assessment

You will take an English language test and be placed on an appropriate course depending on your level of English.

ESOL – Pre-entry

I am new to ESOL. I cannot speak, listen, read or write in English at all or only a little. I need to translate or ask for help from a friend or family member who speaks English.

Courses cover speaking and listening, reading and writing. When you have completed the course and made enough progress, the next level is Entry 1.

ESOL – Entry Levels

E1 – I can understand, respond to and ask basic questions in English. I can say or write simple statements about everyday topics. I can read common signs and short written texts.

E2 – I can understand short spoken explanations and instructions. I can write or talk about everyday topics. I can find and understand information from short written texts.

E3 – I can communicate face-to-face or on the telephone. I can write about or discuss my ideas and opinions. I can read and understand a range of written information on everyday topics without help.

Courses include exams in speaking and listening, reading and writing. Progress to the next level when you have completed the qualification.

ESOL – Level 1

I can communicate independently. I can read and understand information from different types of written texts. I can write clearly about a range of information, ideas, and opinions.

Courses include exams in speaking and listening, reading and writing. Progress to the next level when you have completed the qualification*. Many providers offer ESOL up to Level 1. When you have completed Level 1, the next English language course is:

English Functional Skills – Level 1

*Before joining an English Functional Skills course, you may need to take another assessment. This is to check that you are ready to progress from ESOL to English Functional Skills.

While studying ESOL, you may have the opportunity to join some other courses to help you to:

• build your skills and confidence
• improve your well-being
• find a hobby or develop an interest
• prepare for employment
• work towards further education
• study on an International English Language Testing System (IELTS) exam preparation course
• prepare for a UK citizenship or settlement application