Nestled in the vibrant suburb of Claremont, the Cape Town School of English has been a cornerstone of language education since its establishment in 1991. As a fully South African-owned institution, it has dedicated over three decades to teaching English to speakers of other languages, fostering a rich multicultural environment that reflects the diverse tapestry of Cape Town itself.
Programmes Offered
The school provides a comprehensive suite of programmes tailored to meet various linguistic needs:
- General English Courses: Structured across multiple proficiency levels—from Beginners to Upper Intermediate/Advanced—these courses cover essential language skills, including reading, writing, grammar, and conversation. Classes are held weekday mornings from 9:00 am to 12:30 pm, with a 30-minute break. Students have the flexibility to enrol at any time and can choose to attend daily or thrice weekly, depending on their visa status.
- Business English: Designed for professionals aiming to enhance their workplace communication, this course focuses on industry-specific terminology and effective business interactions.
- Exam Preparation Courses: The school offers preparatory classes for internationally recognised English proficiency exams, including IELTS, TOEFL, TOEIC, Cambridge Exams, and the Pearson Test of English. These courses equip students with the necessary skills and strategies to excel in their chosen assessments.
- Foundational Learning Competence (FLC) Programme: This part-qualification addresses foundational competencies in Communication and Mathematical Literacy, essential for occupational learning at NQF Levels 2-4. It’s particularly beneficial for individuals without a Grade 12 or equivalent qualification, aiming to advance their careers.
Admission Requirements
Admission criteria vary based on the chosen programme:
- General English and Business English Courses: Prospective students undergo a placement assessment—either written or verbal—to determine the appropriate proficiency level. This ensures that learners are placed in classes that align with their current skills, facilitating effective learning.
- Exam Preparation Courses: While there are no strict prerequisites, a foundational understanding of English is recommended to maximise the benefits of these courses.
- FLC Programme: Applicants should be competent at ABET Level 3 or 4 in English or Maths Literacy, equivalent to Grade 9 or NQF Level 1. A placement assessment is advisable to ensure alignment between the programme’s demands and the learner’s competence.
Application Process
The Cape Town School of English maintains a streamlined application process:
- Enquiry: Prospective students are encouraged to contact the school via phone at +27 (0) 21 674-4118 or email at info@ctenglish.co.za to express interest and request detailed information about courses and schedules.
- Placement Assessment: An assessment is conducted to determine the appropriate course level, ensuring that each student embarks on a learning path suited to their proficiency.
- Registration: Following the assessment, students complete the registration process, which includes submitting necessary documentation and settling applicable fees.
- Commencement: Students can begin their classes as per the agreed schedule, with courses running continuously throughout the year to accommodate various start times.
Key Dates and Application Deadlines
One of the school’s distinctive features is its rolling admissions policy:
- Continuous Enrolment: Students may enrol at any time during the year, providing flexibility to commence studies at their convenience.
- Class Schedules: General English classes are held weekday mornings, while specific schedules for other programmes are provided upon enquiry.
Additional Services
To enhance the learning experience, the school offers:
- Accommodation Assistance: The school facilitates accommodation arrangements, including homestays, hotels, and guest houses, ensuring students have comfortable living conditions conducive to their studies.
- Cultural Immersion: Situated in Cape Town, the school provides students with opportunities to immerse themselves in the city’s rich cultural and social activities, complementing their academic journey.
Conclusion
The Cape Town School of English stands as a beacon for those seeking quality English language education in a dynamic and supportive environment. Its diverse programmes, flexible enrolment, and commitment to student success make it an ideal choice for learners aiming to enhance their English proficiency and broaden their horizons.
For more information or to begin your application, visit the official website: www.ctenglish.co.za.