We offer daytime and evening courses in French, German, Italian, Spanish, Greek, Arabic, Urdu, British Sign Language (BSL) and Lip Reading, Creative Writing and Advanced ESOL/IELTS Preparation. Our courses concentrate on the development of essential communication skills, alongside useful cultural information. We help foreign language learners to prepare for business, holidays or extended residence overseas. BSL learners improve their ability to communicate with deaf clients, colleagues of family members. Lip Reading learners, whose hearing may be deteriorating, learn to maintain active communication skills.
Most language courses range from beginner to Level 2 (GCSE level). Learners can obtain NOCN and CACDP qualifications at Levels 1 and 2. ESOL learners can prepare for IELTS to support university entrance or professional work. A few non-accredited courses are offered at higher levels. There is no qualification offered for Lip Reading or Creative Writing. Most courses run for 30 weeks from September to June, although short taster courses and 10-week introductory courses are also available at various times during the year. Course fees are £42 for 10 weeks. Lip Reading and Family Learning Parent & Child classes are free.
Classes are held in local community centres and schools. Learners with disabilities or learning difficulties can access additional support, if required.
Languages and Communications Staff
Curriculum Manager Kathy Howard (01642) 528125
Subject Leader: Helen Willis
Tutors/Assessors
Spanish Tutors: Helen Willis, Ulice Shaw, Gladys Valdivia-Warren, Michael Pryce & Mireya Madderson.
Italian Tutors: Helen Willia, Katia Lightfoot, Jane Rombi & Louise Farrell.
French Tutors: Patricia Reilly, Abdul Nasser Nane & Souad Aissa.
German Tutors: Mavis Robson & Katia Lightfoot.
Greek Tutors: George Kiriakou.
Arabic Tutors: Abdul Nasser Nane.
British Sign Language Tutors: Geraldine Gardner, Pauline Hodgson & Roy Mitchell.
Lip Reading Tutors: Val Tait.
Creative Writing Tutors: Joan Opie.
Advanced ESOL Tutor: Janice Pitt.
