English for Speakers of Other Languages (ESOL)

There are a number of ways for individuals to learn and develop their English language skills.  This can be done informally, where the focus is on conversational English, such as greeting friends and family, booking an appointment or using public transport.  An alternative approach is to learn English formally where individuals attend courses and upon successful completion, recognised or accredited qualifications in reading, writing, speaking and listening are achieved. Prior to starting a formal course, individuals will need to be assessed to determine which level of study is right for them, to make sure that they are in a class with others of a similar level and ability.  Usually, you can only attend one formal course at a time, so you can't mix and match education providers.  Please find below a list of organisations who provide ESOL in Chorley:

Beam

Chorley Council is partnering with Beam to provide free, intensive ESOL courses to refugees across Chorley, followed by 13 weeks of 1:1 support to help residents secure a stable job, and/or their own home in the rented sector: Visit Beam's website

Welcome to Beam! We support refugees and guests with online English classes, so they can find jobs and rent properties in the UK. The classes are open to anyone who wants to improve their language skills, and will be followed by 13 weeks of tailored support to support residents into employment or a home. 

What we offer

Our ESOL course teaches real life skills, like how to book a doctor's appointment or prepare for a job interview. Our aim is for every learner to feel comfortable using their English language skills so they can build connections with their local community.

Every Beam student receives:

• A short language assessment to help Beam place you in the right class for your ability
• 20 hours a week of guided English language learning over 10 weeks 
• Small, interactive virtual classrooms with other students - you'll all learn together!
• A dedicated course teacher who is there to answer any questions
• Support with finding a volunteer work placement to improve your language skills

For more information on our ESOL provision, please see the brochure attached. Spaces are filling up quickly, so please register your interest as soon as possible by emailing referrals@beam.org.

Lancashire Adult Learning

Lancashire Adult Learning (LAL) currently offer two accredited ESOL classes from the Hollinshead Centre in Chorley.  One of the classes operates of an evening which allows those individuals who are unavailable during the day to access English language provision.  To register your interest in these classes and to book an assessment, please visit the LAL website.  

Runshaw College

Runshaw Adult College also offer accredited English language courses which are delivered directly from their campus on Euxton Lane in Chorley.  Please check the Runshaw College website for more information.

Preston College

Accredited ESOL courses are available at every level at Preston College, up to and including Level 2. They also have classes to develop English skills for both work and home life alongside preparation to gain citizenship courses.  There are opportunities to enrol onto ESOL courses at regular intervals throughout the year.  Please visit Preston College's website for more information. 

WEA

Accredited ESOL classes are being delivered by the WEA from Chorley Library.  You will need to book an assessment via the WEA website before you attend.