Pre-programme – Prepare for success
This programme is designed to give you the academic and English skills you need before starting your GCSEs, A levels or university foundation course. In addition to improving your English language skills, you will also gain knowledge in your chosen subjects, as well as learning more about studying and living in the UK.
At a glance
- Prepare for GCSEs, A levels or university foundation
- Choose a 2 or 3 term programme
- Study split – approximately 60% English language programme, and 40% subject-specific programme
- Access to a wide choice of subjects such as Maths, Sciences, and Business
- Assessed through internal testing only
- Students will take Pearson PTE Academic exam at the end of the course (UKVI exam if required for visa purposes)
Course aims
- Build knowledge in core subjects in the academic curriculum
- Improve proficiency in written and spoken English
- Develop academic reading and writing skills ready for UK exams
- Provide an enriched understanding of British Culture
- Encourage participation in a wide range of co-curricular activities
Course details
- Twenty five hours per week, plus extra-curricular activities
- Weekly timed assignments (reading and writing; listening and writing)
- Diagnostic test to identify areas of development
- Weekly testing to inform individual progress tracking
- Structured extra-curricular programme to support communicative competence
- Weekly meeting with Personal Tutor (Director of Studies in London) to discuss progress, and any other issues
- English Language component consists of English for Academic Purposes (EAP), study skills, exam preparation
- Subject-specific component consists of subject introduction classes and English for Specific Purposes (ESP) in chosen subject areas such as maths, science, or business
Start dates
- September – to start GCSE, A level or Foundation the following January
- January – to start GCSE, A level or Foundation the following September
- April – to start an English for Academic Purposes (EAP) preparation course
Progression to GCSE, A level or NCUK foundation depends on achieving CEFR B2 / IELTS 5.5 in all bands
Entry requirements
- Age 16+ (under 16s accepted if approved accommodation or private fostering services are chosen)
- CEFR B1 level or IELTS 4.0 or above, or equivalent – Pearson PTE (29-35), TOEFL iBT (32-34) or Cambridge English Scale (147)
Termly fees
One term | Fast Track option for students that successfully pass internal assessments in term 1 (September start) can progress directly to January start for GCSEs, A levels, or Foundation programme.
On reaching CEFR B2 level, students will be able to join the intended GCSE, A level or Foundation course.