A quick guide to finding your level

It is highly recommended that you read this guide before you decide which level suits you.

Communication is the name of the game; the main emphasis of all our language classes will be conversational skills. These courses will equip you to cope in most situations that you could find yourself in whilst on holiday or when meeting foreign visitors in this country. Basic structures and vocabulary will be learned using a wide range of materials. If you are unsure as to which class to go to you should choose the one you think is closest to your level and then ask the teacher's advice.

Please note: Based on learner feedback we are offering all classes as non-accredited i.e. there is no formal assessment process, and no certificate.  However, you are expected to track & review your learning with support from the tutor.

Language Tasters & Holiday Courses
Taster courses are usually delivered by a native speaker and are aimed at learners who have little or no prior knowledge of the chosen language. It introduces you to the culture, geography, traditions, and people. Holiday courses usually take place later in the year in order to “top up” your language (even if your skill level is basic) and refresh your memory before a trip to a country where that language is spoken.

Beginners (Year 1) - non accredited
For absolute beginners or those wishing to start again. You will learn to get by in the country of your choice. Topics include greetings, personal information, finding the way, shopping, ordering food and drink, tourist information and using public transport. Some basic grammar will be introduced.

Continuation (Year 2)
For those who have completed a year 1 course or 'false' beginners e.g.: an old qualification. Topics as above in more depth, also booking accommodation, talking about your home, family, leisure and interests, daily routine, illness and injury. More grammatical structures will be covered.

Intermediate (Year 3)
You have completed a course at the above level or equivalent. You can talk about yourself, family; hobbies etc. and get by in a number of everyday situations. You can usually understand a native speaker using familiar language; you can read simple texts and are beginning to develop writing skills. You should be able to express yourself in a number of tenses.

Intermediate Plus (Year 4)
For learners of reasonable competence with a good understanding of the language. All four language skills (speaking, reading, listening, and writing) will be developed using a variety of topics. The course aims to develop fluency, accuracy and expression.

Conversation - non accredited
Please note that these courses are not for beginners but for learners who have a good knowledge of the language and who wish to extend their vocabulary, gain confidence and increase their fluency. There are two levels:

Year 5 Conversation
For learners with 4/5 years of study or a recent GCSE pass (A-C), or equivalent.

Year 6 + / Advanced Conversation
For competent learners wishing to improve accuracy and develop fluency and variety of expression with the guidance of a native speaker.

French
German
Italian
Mandarin Chinese
Polish
Russian
Sign Language
Spanish

Click on a course to see its details.