Key Stage 3

English as a Second Language (ESL)

Each student follows an individualised programme of intensive English to reinforce and develop functional language skills in reading, listening, speaking and writing.

Emphasis is placed on grammar and vocabulary development.

IGCSE

English As A Second Language (ESL)

This examination assesses students’ ability to use English as a medium of practical communication.

Targeted at students for whom English is not their mother tongue, but for whom it is the lingua franca or the language of study, it assesses the interdependent practical areas of writing, reading and listening; a separate endorsed grade is given for speaking.

The syllabus develops ability to use English effectively in a variety of contexts. It equips students with broader skills, such as selecting and analysing material, and provides a sound language base for further study or employment where English is the medium of communication.

Students are assessed on their ability to:

• understand, convey, order and present facts, ideas and opinions;

• evaluate and select information;

• articulate experience and express opinions;

• communicate effectively and appropriately;
• exercise control of appropriate grammatical structures, conventions of paragraphing, sentence structure, punctuation and spelling

Students take the ESL examination at the end of Year 10. The examination consists of three papers:

Paper 1 or 2        Reading and Writing

Paper 3 or 4      Listening

Paper 5      Speaking

Core Students are those expected to attain Grade C – G

Extended Students are those expected to attain Grade A* – D

The IGCSE ESL qualification (at Grade C or higher) is included in the UK Universities and Colleges Admissions Service (UCAS) list of qualifications which is acceptable as evidence of proficiency in English. It is also recognised by many universities in the USA, Canada and Australasia.

A Level

English Proficiency

English as a Second Language is offered at Proficiency level to those students who are not native speakers of English, but have attained a high level at IGCSE.

This is a two year course leading to the Cambridge Certificate of Proficiency in English, which is a prestigious award recognised internationally as an exceptionally high level of English. It is required for careers in business, commerce, tourism and airlines. It also entitles the holder to teach English to non-native speakers.