Courses
English in Chester offers a wide range of English language courses. Some are for different age groups, for example, teenagers, young adults, or mature students. Other courses are for people with specific needs, for example, business people, students going on to university study in the UK or who need to take an internationally recognised exam. There are courses for everyone from the age of 14 to 80+.
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General English Courses (age 17+)
Full-time courses throughout the year for students of 17 years of age and over with different routes to cater for different student needs:
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25+ General English Courses
Short, intensive courses for students over 25 available in the Language Training Centre throughout the year.
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Examination Courses
Internationally-recognised examination courses at different levels to help in work, study and career development.
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Courses for Business & Professional People
Intensive short courses for the 25+ age group, starting every Monday, with a maximum of 6 students in a class and optional individual tuition. English in Chester offer the following courses:
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50+ Courses - Language Holidays for the Over Fifties
Specially designed courses with an inclusive social programme for our more mature clients.
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Courses for Teenagers & Young Learners
Summer courses with an inclusive excursion/activity programme for individual 14-16 year olds and "mini" groups only.
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Courses for Closed Groups
Tailor-made closed group courses for schools and special interest groups.
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Pre-Sessional Courses
Preparation for undergraduate and postgraduate study at local universities, in association with Keele University and the University of Chester.
The lesson programme is well-structured and well thought out. The morning lessons really improved my use of structure and my speaking and in the afternoon I had more choice to build up my skills. My English is much better than when I arrived!
Your questions answered
Which course is right for me?
The right course for you depends on your age, how much time you have and what you want from the experience. We offer a range of very distinct courses. Contact us if you would like some advice.
When do the courses start?
Our General English and Business English courses start every Monday during the year. Other courses have fixed dates and you can find them in the Courses section of the website. There is some flexibility on fixed-date courses. Contact us to discuss your needs.
Are there are any part-time courses?
No. All courses at English in Chester are designed for full-time study and we do not accept part-time students.
How do you know what class to put me in when I arrive at the school?
On your first day we assess your level and place you in a class. You can also tell us before you come what level you think you are. You will still have to do the test though!
How do I move from one level to another?
We want students to make as much progress as possible and to be happy in their class. Students, teachers and the Academic Manager always discuss and negotiate level changes. We want what is best for the student.
Can I change my afternoon option classes on General English courses?
Yes. If you change your mind you can talk to the Academic Manager or the Course Director and choose something else.
Can I take an examination at English in Chester?
Yes. English in Chester is a Cambridge exam centre. We regularly offer KET, PET, FCE and CAE exams. We are also a centre for the TOEIC exam and offer IELTS preparation.
Can I do Business English?
We offer Business English on our Courses for Business & Professional People in the Language Training Centre. There is also a Business English route in the afternoon of the General English course called “The Young Executive Course”. This is for young people considering a career in business or who have recently started a business career.
Will I get a certificate at the end of my course?
All courses result in a certificate of attendance which shows the level you studied at and the dates of your study. In addition exam courses have their own certificates.
Is there any homework?
On most courses regular homework assignments are given. Usually you will have a little every day, which can be some grammar or vocabulary exercises, a short piece of writing or an interview with your host family.
Can I take a holiday during my course?
Long-term students can take holidays, but these should be prearranged at the time of booking. The holiday allowances are: 12 - 24 weeks: 10 days; 24 - 36 weeks: 15 days; 36+ weeks: 20 days. Students need to notify the Academic Manager when they want to take holiday and the dates will be filled in on the student’s holiday form.
I want to study at an English University - how long will it take to prepare?
The school offers a route to university study through the Pre-Sessional programme which runs from 6 to 16 weeks before the start of the university academic year in September. The recommended length of a Pre-Sessional course will depend on your level of English. Students with a lower level of English may need more than 16 weeks and should take a General English course with afternoon lessons from the University Preparation route.
Is it possible to transfer from one course to another?
Yes - if places are available at the right language level. If the course fee is different it may be necessary to pay a supplement.
