Swansea University’s free English language lessons for beginners are still going strong despite lockdown.
So far, a mix of adults from more than 70 countries have taken advantage of the lessons which are now being offered online by the University’s English Language Training Services (ELTS).
The move follows the ELTS team successfully switching its formally taught courses online.
English for University Studies tutor Jade Fouracre-Reynolds said: “Working in conjunction with other providers and agencies in Swansea and across South Wales, these classes contribute to providing consistent access to language learning, social interaction and building strong community ties for individuals who have much to contribute.
“We moved online to ensure continuity of delivery, in spite of the unprecedented circumstances. What we’ve found is that this format is expanding our reach – allowing us to provide for even more learners and volunteers.”
The volunteers are drawn from a pool of ELTS and wider university staff along with successful CELTA trainees and qualified friends visiting teachers.
They teach via Zoom and the classes are run on a drop-in basis so there is no fixed attendance commitment and learners are free to attend whenever they can.
Jade added: “Everyone is welcome and the mutual benefits are a joy to see.”
New learners are always welcome. All they need to do is register via the website The classes are currently held on Monday, Tuesday and Thursday afternoons with no fixed term dates They run every week of the year with the exception of a break in December and bank holidays.
