English for Speakers of Other Languages (ESOL) courses

ESOL

You'll learn how to read, write, and speak clearly in English, but it's more than just English: you will have the opportunity to work with people from many different countries, and share your story and culture. Most of all, you'll make new friends and boost your confidence to live well in your local community.

We offer qualifications at every level from pre-entry (beginner) to Level 2 (advanced), and every ESOL learner will be invited to join one of our informal 'ESOL Allsorts' sessions. ESOL Allsorts is where you can make friends, relax and have fun learning English while doing other activities like crafting, arts, sports, cooking or visiting different areas of County Durham.

ESOL Courses

Community interpreting

Do you speak English and another language?  If you are thinking of becoming an interpreter and either wish to pursue a career in interpreting or provide voluntary help in your local community then contact us for a free initial assessment and further information.

Please note we can enrol you on a course after the start date has passed.

Use the Enquire about DurhamLearn courses to ask for further information on this course, or alternatively you can contact us by phone or email.

Volunteering to support English language teaching and learning

Have you completed your studies in ESOL? Do you want to support people from other countries to integrate into your local community?

Our Volunteering to Support English Language qualification is available at Level 1 and has been developed for volunteers who want to support ESOL learning. There are no specific entry requirements, but you must demonstrate competence in your use of English. You will build a portfolio of evidence, including real time supporting in an ESOL classroom. 

After this course, you can progress onto the Level 2 award in Volunteering to Support ESOL, or move on to a qualification in Supporting Teaching and Learning in Schools. We can even help you get into teaching ESOL as a career!

Use the Enquire about DurhamLearn courses to ask for further information on this course, or alternatively you can contact us by phone or email.

Ukrainian for hosts and volunteers

Have you sponsored a Ukrainian refugee? Are you considering becoming a sponsor but are worried about communicating effectively with your guests? You may also be a local volunteer supporting victims of the Ukrainian invasion. If you would like to build your communication skills and learn a little conversational Ukrainian, then our online Ukrainian 4 Hosts and Volunteers evening course is for you. 

Please note we can enrol you on a course after the start date has passed.

Use the Enquire about DurhamLearn courses to ask for further information on any of our courses, or alternatively you can contact us by phone or email.