Frequetly Asked Questions (FAQ)

How far in advance do I need to make a booking?

Ideally we would like as much notice as possible, especially if accommodation is required. However, we will accept your booking at any time depending on availability of course and accommodation.

How old are students?
Most students are aged between 18 and 40 years old. A typical student is probably early to mid- twenties, although there are lots of older students too. In July and August, about 8% of students are 16 -19 yrs old. Executive and business clients are typically between the ages of 30-50.

Do I need to buy a book?
All course materials are included in the cost of your course except for Cambridge examination courses when you will have to buy a book. We do advise you to bring any reference books such as dictionaries. You will also need to provide all your own writing material.

How much homework will I get?
Homework is set for all courses and will usually take from 30 to 45 minutes per day.

What qualification do the teachers have?
All teachers have a degree and a recognised certificate in teaching English to foreign students. Furthermore, the majority of our teachers have 2 or more years experience before we employ them. Some teachers also have further qualifications in teaching, for example, English for Business. We run regular in-house training and development seminars for our teachers to improve their skills.

Can I extend or change my course?
It is easy to extend your course as long as you tell us in good time. If you want to upgrade your course, this is also possible. It is not usually possible to shorten your course or change to a less intensive course except in special circumstances. See conditions of enrolment for further information

Can I extend or change my accommodation?
If there is availability, you can extend your accommodation (as long as you are also extending your course). If you want to change your accommodation, you must give us one week's notice or pay one week's accommodation fee. In exceptional circumstances (for example when there is a serious complaint about your accommodation), we can change your accommodation without penalty or advance notice.

Can I open a bank account in the UK?
It has become extremely difficult for short-term (less than 1 year) foreign students to open an account with a UK bank. In general, if you are studying for less than 6 months, there is no chance. Usually, the bank will require you to be taking a course for at least 1 year. You will also have to prove that you have held a bank account in your own country for at least 3 months (you will have to show them your bank statements). It is helpful if you can try to make some arrangement with your bank before you leave your country.

Can I access my email and the Internet?
The school provides free Internet access for all our students.