In Brixton and the surrounding areas there are women of many varied ethnic backgrounds and languages who, in spite of living here for many years, have never really mastered English because they have not had the opportunity to attend formal classes. Others, having recently arrived in this country and taken up residence in South London, hardly speak a word of English. They might need to start speaking, listening, reading and writing from scratch.

Here at the Baytree Centre we have been offering English classes for Speakers of Other Languages for almost 20 years, and women from over 100 countries have taken advantage of our courses. Many have gone on to do vocational courses, continued their education, or gained employment. Others have gained in self-confidence, especially in helping their families with their education.

We offer general ESOL Skills for Life courses from Entry Level 1 (for beginners) up to Level 1 (equivalent to GCSE grades D, E and F). Courses on offer at any particular time vary according to demand as well as the availability of funding. We have a three-term intake, so new learners may begin courses in September, January or April.

Some of the courses are delivered here at The Baytree Centre, while others take place in various North Lambeth Children’s Centres.

Students take ESOL Edexcel Skills for Life examinations at the appropriate level in Reading, Writing, Speaking and Listening at the end of their course. Baytree is a recognised examinations centre for Cambridge, OCR, City & Guilds and Edexcel examinations.