Study English in San Francisco!

Our teaching approach is learner-centered: that means we focus on your needs and interests. We encourage full use of the self-access center with its multi-media facilities. There are tape recorders for listening and pronunciation practice and computers with CD-ROM and access to the Internet. Music, drama, role-play and other communicative activities are some other techniques used to involve students in the learning of English.

Our teachers are chosen for their expertise in helping students improve their language skills. All have studied a foreign language, and most of them have lived abroad and understand the importance of cultural awareness. All teachers are qualified with the RSA/Cambridge Certificate or Diploma, or a Master's Degree in the Teaching of English as a Foreign Language.

We want you to learn as much as you can during your stay with us. On your first day, (or before you arrive), you will be asked to complete a short test which will tell us your level of English. You will then be placed in a class most suitable for your level. Early in the course, teachers arrange to meet students individually to discuss their personal objectives. Individual counseling continues throughout the course to help students with learning strategies to get the most out of their time in San Francisco.

If you discover that the lessons are too hard (or too easy), then you can discuss this with your teacher and the Director of Studies. If there is something you know you need help with but do not need to move classes, your teachers are always available to help you either in the lessons or by recommending further reading.

Students for General English classes must be aged 16 years or over, except where stated. Lessons last 50 minutes in all cases. Textbooks, all supplementary materials and unlimited use of libraries and self-access facilities are included in the tuition fee.

When you arrive at the school you will go directly into our student orientation program. This includes:

• A placement test
• An introduction to the learning resources and school facilities
• Information on the area and facilities around the school
• A welcome talk by the Principal or Director of Studies

The results of your placement tests will help us place you in the correct class for your level. Your level is regularly monitored and tested, and class changes can be made at 2-weekly intervals.

Once you begin classes, you will have regular opportunities to influence the content of your course, both through day-to-day interaction and regular counseling sessions with your teacher.

Our maximum class sizes are as follows:

• General English: 12
• Platinum Courses: 5 or one-to-one
• Academic Year Courses: 14

We have six main levels of English:

• Beginner
• Elementary
• Pre-intermediate
• Intermediate
• Upper Intermediate
• Advanced

At the end of your course, you will receive a certificate (subject to satisfactory attendance), providing you with a record of your achievement at our school. We offer a choice of two end-of-course certificates:

• The Certificate of Studies is awarded to students who successfully complete any one of our programs, and records your level of English (e.g. Upper Intermediate) at the end of the course.
• The Certificate in English is awarded to students who pass a written and oral examination at one of our six levels.

Click here to apply for English Language courses.

We are looking forward to welcoming you to the English Language School in San Francisco, USA!