English for Speakers of Other Languages (ESOL)
Community Learning and Development are the only providers of community based ESOL support in Inverclyde. This provision addresses the needs of learners who have English as their second or other language.
There are a wide range of programmes available:
Family learning ESOL sessions are designed to teach English to those families for whom English is not their first language. The programme promotes learning as a family and links with local schools/nurseries.
Workplace ESOL provision are customised programmes to meet the needs of local employers. Many employers have non-native English speakers who may need support with workplace English or even just understanding Scottish dialect and slang. These programmes are delivered within the workplace, with flexible times and delivery modes to meet the needs of local employers and their employees.
All ESOL learners have the opportunity to gain a wide range of accreditation opportunities from the Scottish Qualifications Authority (SQA). Learners who would like to settle permanently in the UK are supported through their International English Language Testing System (IELTS) exams.
We also host informal conversation groups which provide an opportunity to meet and develop English conversational skills with other learners.
Courses run in various venues across Inverclyde. The full timetable can be viewed on Inverclyde Life. All support is free of charge.
We are always looking for opportunities to engage with new potential ESOL learners and offer free ESOL awareness raising sessions to any local agencies who support non-native English speakers.