ESOL providers
ESOL stands for English for Speakers of Other Languages. There are lots of different types of English classes in Southwark, from beginner level to advanced. In the UK, English classes for adults are called 'ESOL classes'.
Learning English can help you:
- make friends
- get a job
- get a better job
- assist your child with homework
- talk to your doctor, your child's teachers and neighbours
- prepare for further or higher education and qualifications
Some courses will have examinations, others will not. Some courses will offer childcare while you learn, or ESOL online. Others will offer classes in the evenings, weekends or during school hours, so you can learn even if you have a job or need to collect children from school.
English (ESOL) classes in Southwark
English for Action
- free online and face-to-face ESOL classes for adult migrants, refugees and people seeking asylum
- class levels are E1 to L2
- some classes are open to all, others are for non-EU, non-British nationals with leave to remain
- childcare is provided if spaces are available
How to apply for classes
- register for classes online
- email Kasia Blackman at kasia@efalondon.org or phone 07774 668721
Learning Unlimited
- free online ESOL classes for non-EU migrants and refugees
- NRPF welcome
- class levels E1 to L2
- four free drop-in conversation clubs per week
How to apply for classes
Southwark Day Centre for Asylum Seekers (SDCAS)
- free class
- classes on Tuesdays, 12pm to 1pm at the Coplestone Centre
- three class levels
- hot lunch available and various types of support and activities (see website)
How to apply for classes
- visit the SDCAS Day Centre for Asylum Seekers (Copleston Centre, Copleston Road, SE15 4AN), Tuesdays at 11.45am
Southwark Adult Learning Service
- free face-to-face class open to all adults
- pre-entry classes for complete beginners
- you must attend a short friendly initial assessment to join - see the website for details
- creche subject to places available (conditions apply)
How to apply for classes
- visit Thomas Calton (Alpha Street Peckham Rye SE15 4NX)
- call 020 7358 2100 to book an appointment
- enrolment is every Monday 10am to 2.30pm
- find more information on their ESOL webpage
Mary Ward Centre
- blended online and face-to-face classes
- free for most participants
- you'll need to attend an initial assessment first
How to apply for classes
- call 020 7928 9521 to book an appointment at Blackfriars Settlement, 1 Rushworth Street SE1 0RB
Ripe Learning
- free blended online and face-to-face classes
- pre-entry to Entry 3 level classes
- completion of an initial assessment is required
- study towards qualification
- childcare is available with some classes
How to apply for classes
- call 020 3601 2212
- email hello@ripelearning.com
The Bridge at St John's Waterloo
- free English conversation club every Tuesday during term time, 10.30am to 12pm
- The Bridge at Waterloo room is in the crypt at St John's Church Waterloo, Waterloo Road (by the IMAX roundabout) SE1 8TY
How to apply for classes
- visit St John's Waterloo Church, SE1 8TY on Tuesdays at 10.30am
- email Abigail at outreach@stjohnswaterloo.org
- phone 07741 736 481
Page last updated: 13 September 2023
