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Learners in Shaftesbury gain new English skills in ESOL classes

Gold Hill Museum is not only home to a fantastic museum and history, but also learning for the future. Every week, over 20 English language students are working hard to gain new skills. 

They are learning how to communicate and manage the challenges of living in a new country and mastering all the peculiarities of a new language.  ‘The tenses are the hardest’, one student said.  Many have learnt English in their home countries, however the reality of launching yourself into life here is a whole other challenge. 

The learners in the class are making very good progress according to one of the tutors who praised their determination. Volunteers and tutors meet the students for English conversation to help them speak, write and listen to better English. This is coordinated in partnership with the Shaftesbury Refugee Group.

Oksana said how grateful they were for the classes.  She said, ‘they have helped my language so much; it’s so important for us to be able to speak’ and ‘I can find out about everything and how it all works.’ Iryna said, ‘My English has improved a lot. I can learn about lots of different topics which are all relevant and use the words in my normal life.’

Many of the recent refugees have found themselves in quite rural settings, which are very different from their lives in large towns in their home countries. This has been an additional challenge, together with often leaving careers behind. 

We run these free ESOL courses to adults looking to better their skills. 

Oksana was grateful that Skills & Learning have provided friendly tutors and were also able to cover transport costs such as taxi or bus fares if needed.  Coming to the lessons also helps them meet and make friends with other adults so support for each other spreads that way too. 

Halyna said, ’it’s very friendly and joyful, there’s good connection between the teacher and the others in the class.’ ’Many thanks for this opportunity!’

We are excited to be launching more courses in north Dorset, including ESOL and much more in the summer. We also have classes in Bournemouth, Poole and Christchurch. For now, explore our courses and book an admissions session!

We are also recruiting new ESOL,  Art. IT and Maths Tutors and Learning Support Assistants. Look at our vacancies or fill in our prospective application form.