ESOL ONline
After research by Unite the Union found that large groups of migrant workers were being excluded from entering and receiving education, the WEA were commissioned by Unite to develop an innovative software package to enrol and engage them in learning.
As many migrants struggle to attend classroom-based sessions due to changing shift patterns and other issues, the WEA ensured their software allowed students to access the ESOL provision online 24/7. In addition the software can be run from a USB drive without the need for the internet. This makes the course unique in that it can be fully delivered in even the most rural of areas, allowing a greater number of students to participate.
The project has helped the learners involved to develop English language skills that not only help them in their working environment but also give them the confidence they need to lead fuller lives within their community. Many of the students have gone onto further courses within the WEA, Unite and through other providers. Several have gone on to either get a job for the first time since arriving in the UK or have received a promotion at work.
One learner said, “I came to this country from Lithuania but struggled to get a job because I could not always understand things. However, because of this course I have now written a CV in English and have found a new job that makes me a lot happier.”