The aim of the project is to support Syrian New Scots settled in North Ayrshire to build a life in Scotland. The focus of the project is Employability..

The programme set out to provide intensive English language support to integrate into North Ayrshire life and communities but also allow refugees to consider employment as a realistic medium to long term prospect. It also recognises the value of English learning within the context of skills development and appropriate work experience.

To assist participating learners improve their English language and communication skills and help with employability and integration. Learners could for example include migrant workers needing to understand the language of their workplace and communities.

While COVID 19 has brought its share of challenges, Education Coordinator for the Women in the Highlands Project: Harriet Tay, outlines a number of benefits that have materialised from the delivery of virtual learning

‘Survival English ESOL’ is a flexible programme aiming to equip those possessing basic language abilities with essential English skills. We encourage social connections and familiarity with local community and culture.

The programme will build learner confidence to engage in further learning and utilise established relationships with ESOL providers to provide progression routes.

This project aims to increase the social connections and opportunities for non-native English speakers - in this instance Syrian New Scots - to use their English outside the classroom, using a peer education approach to encourage participation in collective actions to the benefit of the group and the local community.

This SQA award provides ESOL training for practitioners (many of whom are volunteer tutors) wishing to teach, or support ESOL teaching.

It provides an introduction to the core knowledge and skills required to tutor ESOL learners in a supported context. It supports a range of practitioners who are new to the field of ESOL and/or who have no recognised TESOL/TEFL1 qualifications. It is also relevant for teachers of other subjects who have ESOL learners in their classes and who wish to develop a broader understanding of issues related to English language development.

Provides ESOL training for practitioners (many of whom are volunteer tutors) wishing to teach, or support ESOL teaching

A workshop which identifies and explores the differences between formal and community learning (Social Practice model) approaches to ESOL teaching.

This workshop compares and contrasts the merits of each approach to ESOL provision. It considers course and lesson planning, content, delivery and learner aims and aspirations. It is aimed at ESOL practitioners, especially those who are coming to community based learning for the first time, with experience in a more formal, college setting, often with a prescribed curriculum.
Feedback;

This short workshop aims to help ESOL tutors/practitioners who teach Roman Script to beginners.

This workshop was developed by and for ESOL tutors currently teaching Syrian New Scots. It is highly participative, drawing on the shared experience of participants. Feedback;

“Teaching style was excellent and interactive. Got everyone involved and sharing ideas/experiences.”

“As a new ESOL teacher I have gleaned many fantastic strategy ideas.”

“Lots of good ideas for working with older learners. Good to share ideas.”

This workshop is aimed at supporting ESOL practitioners by raising awareness of cultural issues and their impact within the ESOL classroom.