English for speakers of other languages (ESOL)

We aim to give adults for whom English is not their first language the opportunity to access courses which increase confidence and language skills and help with:

  • gaining work or progressing in work
  • preparation for further learning and training opportunities
  • integrating into their local communities
  • supporting their families and their children at school

Our courses

We offer a range of ESOL courses at different levels from pre-entry for absolute beginners up to level 2.

The courses develop a full range of skills and competencies in English speaking, listening, reading and writing.

All courses include:

  • grammar
  • study skills
  • British values
  • how to be safe
  • employability
  • communication skills for life and work in the UK

Courses are delivered in community venues across West Sussex and online by qualified, specialist tutors.

We welcome refugees or asylum seekers to apply for our ESOL courses. New Ukrainian arrivals under the Ukraine Family Scheme and Ukraine Sponsorship Scheme are eligible to attend our free ESOL classes.

How to register your interest

Before joining an ESOL course you need to register your interest using the apply now button.

Registering your interest will help us carry out an initial eligibility check and understand where you are able to study. Once registered, we can assess your application.

Learners who are eligible will be invited to a skills assessment, subject to availability. At the skills assessment we will:

  • assess your skill levels
  • discuss your goals
  • recommend the right course for you

At the skills assessment you will need to provide the following documents as part of your assessment. This allows us to check your eligibility and complete your enrolment. Without the following documents your enrolment may not be completed at the point of assessment:

  • evidence of your identity and residency
  • evidence of benefits claimed in the last three months
  • payslips from the previous three months (if you are employed)
Apply now (external link)

 

  • ESOL classes at West Sussex Adult Learning are free for adults aged 19 or over on 31 August 2023, who currently live in England and have been resident in the United Kingdom (UK) for at least three full years prior to starting their course.

    You will be exempt from the three-year residency requirement if you have:

    • discretionary leave to enter or remain
    • humanitarian protection
    • refugee status
    • leave outside the rules
    • leave under one of the Ukraine schemes:
      • the Ukraine Family Scheme
      • the Ukraine Sponsorship Scheme (Homes for Ukraine)
      • the Ukraine Extension Scheme
      • the husband, wife, civil partner or child (aged 19 or over) of an individual with any of the above
    • section 67 of the Immigration Act 2016 leave
    • Calais leave to remain
    • leave under one of the Afghan schemes:
      • the Afghan Citizens Resettlement Scheme (ACRS)
      • the Afghan Relocations and Assistance Policy (ARAP)
      • British Nationals evacuated from Afghanistan under Operation Pitting or by the UK government before 6 January 2022

    If you are an asylum seeker, you are eligible if you have lived in the UK for 6 months or longer while your claim is being considered by the Home Office.

    Term 1 for our ESOL courses began in September 2024, however we will be able to offer course places for learners in term 2 from 24 February 2025. If you are interested in joining, register your interest via the apply now button.

    Apply now (external link)

    We cannot guarantee places on our ESOL courses - they are subject to eligibility checks, language levels and availability. If you have further questions, email ESOL@westsussex.gov.uk