ESOL: English for Speaker of Other Languages SCQF 2-3 (Online Virtual Classroom)

What is special about this course?

Do you want to improve your English skills or learn how to speak English?

On this course, you'll develop your reading, writing, listening, and speaking skills so you can use English confidently in everyday, practical situations. The course is suitable for beginners and early learners, and corresponds with levels A1 to A2 of the Common European Framework of Reference for Languages (CEFR).

Once the course is underway and you're feeling comfortable with your lecturer and your classmates, you can choose whether or not you want to sit formal assessments. Some students decide to complete assessments, while others prefer to focus on practising their English. Both options are completely fine, we welcome everyone in a relaxed, friendly, and supportive environment.

If you choose to be assessed, you'll study for SQA ESOL units at National 2 or National 3 level, depending on your current ability. Each unit takes around 36 hours to complete.
 

If you are choosing to work towards formal qualifications, you will study these units:

  • ESOL for Everyday Life develops the language skills (reading, writing, listening and speaking) needed for everyday life in personal, social and transactional contexts. For example: providing personal information, talking to friends, and shopping.
  • ESOL in Context develops the language skills (reading, writing, listening and speaking) needed for work- or study-related contexts. For example: Writing CVs, emails, or study skills.

Each year we offer ESOL for Everyday Life and ESOL in Context at levels 2 - 3.

If you are not working towards qualifications, you can attend class, and there will be some choice in what you study. For example, you may want to focus on grammar or speaking. Quite often students start the term not planning to sit qualifications, but then change their minds and move on to studying for a SQA unit. If you're not planning to sit a qualification, you can join the class at any point in the year.

Equipment

It will be necessary to have Internet connection and a suitable device with headphones, microphone and camera (minimum spec). 

Please email us if you have any concerns about connectivity or equipment.

How will I study my course?

  • Part Time
  • Online

We will learn together online.

Connected learning is when you learn together with lecturers and other students. It may include: 
•    tutor presentations
•    group discussions
•    sharing ideas
•    small group or pair work 
Connected learning will take place at the same time each week in an online classroom.


Flexible learning will be set weekly and can be completed at a time that is convenient for you. Flexible learning could include: 
•    completing a quiz
•    practising a task or activity
•    watching a video or reading
•    researching and gathering information
•    completing an assignment

How long will my course last?

1 Academic Year

Where can I study my course?

    • Online

Start date

September

Fees

Find out more about fees, fee waivers and funding options.

What can I do on completion of my course?

Other ESOL units at N2 to N3. If you complete both units at National 3 you can apply to study ESOL at SCQF level 4. 

Is there more information available online?

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Apply for ESOL: English for Speaker of Other Languages SCQF 2-3 (Online Virtual Classroom)

I want to start in 2025/26

We are delighted that you are thinking about studying at UHI North, West and Hebrides. UHI North, West and Hebrides operates a fair and open admissions system committed to equality of opportunity and non-discrimination. We consider all applications on merit and on the basis of ability to achieve, without discrimination on grounds of age, disability, gender identity, marriage and civil partnership, pregnancy and maternity status, race, religion and/or belief, sex, sexual orientation or socio-economic background. We welcome applications from all prospective students and aim to provide appropriate and efficient services to students with disabilities.