College Support for English Language Learners

Carnegie College is now offering help to those who are living in the Dunfermline area whose first language is not English. The ESOL (English for Speakers of Other Languages) courses are accredited units and give learners the opportunity to have their learning recognised by SQA (Scottish Qualifications Authority). The courses will be led by Sarah Phillips and held at Carnegie’s Access Centre at the New Row in Dunfermline.   Sarah Phillips lived and worked for many years in Kuwait and Libya teaching English as a foreign language, and is currently a part-time student at Edinburgh University studying for a degree in Arabic. Sarah Phillips, Carnegie College ESOL Lecturer Speaking about the courses Sarah said ‘The classes will be a great help for people who may have recently moved into the area, or those who have been living here for a while and feel that their understanding and use of the English language would benefit from some tuition. The fact that the course is recognised by the SQA means that successful learners have a qualification that can also help those looking for employment or improved job prospects, proving to employers that they have reached a recognised level of English language understanding. The course content aims to give learners skills in everyday communication including speaking and listening, vocabulary, reading and writing, for personal and social situations. As well as helping in day to day living, the course will also help those who are thinking about applying for further education and may have been held back by the lack of a recognised qualification illustrating their understanding of the English language. There are courses at different levels to suit all learners. Depending upon personal circumstances, students may be able to access ILA (Individual Learning Award) funding to help towards the cost of their course.’