Accessible English learning for people on the move

Over the Autumn period, we have had a huge increase in students signing up to English classes. Because of this, 2 extra classes were opened to teach pre-literate students, starting from the very beginning of learning how to form the letters and pronounce the sounds of the English alphabet. In addition to these new classes, more students were added to our existing classes, some of which are now almost at capacity. It is exciting to see learners continuing to improve their language level and supporting each other in our class communities.

As well as general English classes, we are also running a class to prepare for an official B2 English language exam. This is a huge achievement for the students involved - not only will this provide them with life-long proof of their English language abilities, it can also help them to enter the job market in Europe and apply to higher education. Mock exams took place in October, with the aim to sit the official exam in November. The exam will be taken online so that students can have more flexibility with the timings and location; this also helps to make them feel more comfortable and confident!

Alongside classes, we are now running two extra self-study sessions, one for general English practice and the other for writing and reading practice for literacy students. This is a great way for students to come and consolidate the things they are learning in class and practice with other students of different levels. It is also an invaluable quiet space where students can come to read, do their homework, or learn using online resources without the noise and stresses of life inside the camp.

Over the next period before Christmas, we will continue to add new students to our classes and to support the non-formal education of adults living in Katsikas camp. We hope to run another exam class once the B2 exams have been taken, and are currently considering which of our existing students this might be possible to engage them with.