Adult ESOL learners treated to Refugee Education workshops

Adults studying ESOL at Capital City College (CCC) King’s Cross centre gained valuable information on education pathways.

Delivered at Capital City College King’s Cross centre, on 30th April and 1^st May, these two-day workshops were delivered by Huw Hides from Refugee Education. The workshops combined educational and interactive elements to inform learners, particularly asylum seekers and refugees about the British education system. This event discussed possible funding options, entry requirements for courses, eligibility and documents needed to enrol on courses. The workshops also provided information regarding the UK education system and prospective pathways.

Aleena Sharif, Events and Activities Co-ordinator at CCC, shared a few words about the day.

“Huw delivered an engaging and insightful workshop that was well received by our learners. He began with interactive activities such as a “thumbs up/thumbs down” icebreaker, where participants responded to light-hearted questions like “Thumbs up if you prefer coffee over tea.”

“This gradually progressed to more meaningful questions, such as whether learners felt confident about their next steps. These activities encouraged open discussion and helped build confidence in asking questions. Learners were asking questions throughout and left the workshop with a greater understanding of their next steps, post course.”

Adult learners were also provided guidance on potential educational pathways, such as previous qualifications obtained in other countries that relate to the UK system, and the role of ESOL (English for Speakers of Other Languages). Many learners already hold degrees from abroad, so the workshops addressed the idea that someone can be at different academic levels simultaneously.

For example, a learner may hold a degree equivalent to a UK Level 6 qualification, indicating advanced subject knowledge, while their English proficiency might be at Entry Level 2. The sessions helped clarify how learners can navigate the UK education system and what steps they should take to progress.

Aleena added, “Many learners felt comfortable enough to stay behind afterwards to ask more in-depth questions. The workshop also provided valuable signposting to other organisations that support asylum seekers and refugees. These included services that assist with converting qualifications from their home countries, as well as those that help individuals into employment. Huw covered all aspects of pathways thoroughly and responded to questions throughout the session. The workshop was greatly appreciated by all attendees.”

“This is the second year that Huw has delivered the pathways workshop to our ESOL learners, and it’s clear to see the positive impact it has had. The workshop has provided them with crucial information about their next steps. As always, it was highly informative and interactive, keeping the learners engaged and encouraging them to feel more confident in asking questions.”

Curious to learn more about studying ESOL at CCC? Read more about our courses to help you get started, whether you are a beginner, intermediate, or advanced speaker and want to brush up on your skills.

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