ESOL (English for Speakers of Other Languages)

Encouraging the English Language

It has been a pleasure for MavUK to work in collaboration with Crystal Pathways providing a space for local people to learn English. MavUK are committed to empowering adults, seeking employment to better their chances to get work. We also know improved English in adults living in the UK can have a positive impact on the education of young people in their care.

ESOL is a common term in the UK for English language courses designed for non-native speakers to develop skills in reading, writing, speaking, and listening for daily life, work, and further education, with classes ranging from beginner to advanced levels, often free or funded for eligible residents.

ESOL 2-day Work Placement at MavUK

The course helped new residents integrate, gain independence, and improve job prospects by building essential language and life skills, which could lead to recognized qualifications. Part on the ESOL course was a 2-day work placement at MavUK Hulme Centre Hall.

Key aspects of ESOL

A key aspect of ESOL is to provide essential English skills for life and work in the UK, improving confidence and integration.

While exact figures for none English speaking "parents" aren't readily available, Census data from 2021 shows over 1 million adults in England & Wales (about 2.5% of the adult population) reported being unable to speak English well or at all, with significant numbers in households where English isn't the main language, especially in diverse areas like the city of Manchester. A large proportion of the 4.1 million people who speak English as a second language have varying levels of proficiency, with about 17.1% of non-English speakers in England & Wales reporting they couldn't speak English well or at all in 2021. 

ESOL content covers all four language skills (speaking, listening, reading, writing) and knowledge of the language, often aligned with Common European Framework of Reference (CEFR). The course held at Hulme Centre was for 10 weeks and was free to attend for adults (19+) who meet specific residency criteria, such as being a UK/EEA national with settled status.

Attending ESOL can lead to recognized qualifications, allowing progression to higher education, employment, or simply greater independence. Parents can also better encourage young people on their educational journey.

Amir helped clean areas around our community hall. Then found a sentence from a book he liked.

Amir said he liked learning English. He also liked helping with cleaning the streets around our community hall, removing items left by fly tippers.

Who is ESOL for?

New residents to the UK who need to learn English.

Anyone wanting to improve their English for better job opportunities or daily life. Individuals aiming to help children with homework or communicate with doctors and teachers. MavUK hope to support further ESOL courses in 2026.