Adult Education

Known as ESOL (English for Speakers of Other Languages), you can learn English at various locations in Sheffield. The Learning English website has a list of courses provided throughout the city.

Below includes a list of the local services that provide ESOL classes.

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FACES

FACES offers ESOL (English) classes in different places across Sheffield.

They have classes for different levels, from beginner to more confident learners.

Some courses include accreditation, so you can earn a recognised qualification.

FACES also run digital skills and community learning programmes, which can help you build confidence and meet new people.

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Learn for Life Enterprise

Learn for Life Enterprise provides free ESOL (English) classes from pre-entry to Level 2.

They offer flexible learning, including morning, afternoon, and evening classes both face to face and online.

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You can also take Functional Skills English, conversation classes, and preparation for English exams.

Learn for Life supports learners with advice, volunteering opportunities, and information about life in the UK.

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SAVTE

SAVTE (Sheffield Association for the Voluntary Teaching of English) provides a range of options for adults aged 18+:

• Free conversation groups for different English levels (beginner, intermediate, and advanced). Women-only groups available in some locations. Groups held in various areas across Sheffield (please check our updated timetable on our website to find one near you)
• Funded ESOL courses, with enrolment opening three times a year (September, January, and April)
• One-to-one language support for individuals who are unable to attend classes due to health issues or caring responsibilities, delivered at home by trained SAVTE volunteers

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Free part-time English classes at the University of Sheffield‍

The University of Sheffield's English Language Teaching Centre offer free English classes both online and in-person during the Spring and Summer taught by trainee teachers. Find out more on the University of Sheffield's website.

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British Sign Language (BSL) for ESOL learners

Hope English School offer BSL and ESOL courses at different times during the year. Contact 0114 3990687 or [email protected] for more information.

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ESOL for young people (16-19 years old)

CTS Training offer ESOL Learning programmes for 16 to 19 year olds

Functional Skills are practical, transferable skills in English and Mathematics that are used in everyday life, learning, and work. They are recognised qualifications, often equivalent to a GCSE, that help individuals gain confidence and are required for many apprenticeships, employment and further education courses.

Below includes a list of the local services that provide Functional Skills in Sheffield.

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FACES

FACES offers Functional Skills courses in English and Maths across the city.

They have classes for different levels, so you can start at the right stage for you.

Some courses are accredited, meaning you can take the exam and gain a qualification.

FACES also provides friendly support to help build your confidence and prepare you for work or further study.

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Learn for Life Enterprise

Learn for Life Enterprise provides Functional Skills English and Maths from Beginner level up to Level 2.

You can study in-person or online, and exams can often be booked quickly.

Courses are flexible and include small-group learning, exam preparation, and one-to-one support if needed.

Learn for Life also offers extra support with CVs, jobs, and education pathways.

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Sheffield College

Sheffield College offers Functional Skills courses for adults in English and Maths.

Classes run during the day and in the evening across different college campuses.

You will be assessed to find your correct starting level, and then work towards gaining a recognised qualification.

Sheffield College courses are a good option if you want to progress to apprenticeships, further education, or vocational training.

There are community learning hubs in your local neighbourhood. Here are some of them:

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• ‍Learn for Life Enterprise (opens in new tab)- community learning hub based in Sharrow

• Aspiring Communities Together (opens in new tab) -community courses in Burngreave and Firvale

• FACES (opens in new tab) - adult learning courses in community settings across the city

• Firvale Community Hub (opens in new tab) - community learning courses and support services in Page Hall.

• The Furnival (opens in new tab) - Women only community classes including English, Cooking and Wellbeing in Burngreave

• Infinite Skills CiC (opens in new tab) - community courses, accredited courses and cultural training