If you would like to check what level your English is, this is a link to the Cambridge Assessment website, where you can take the General English test:
To test your English, click here.
The result tells you your approximate level, and what exams you might be able to take. Look at the 'Courses We Offer' page, or, if you want to take an exam, look at our 'Examinations' page.
Your level is rated on a scale from A1, A2, B1, B2, C1, or C2 (the highest).
Please note that the result offered by short tests is only an approximate guide, so we test your level accurately when you arrive, before we teach you, and assess you as you progress.
Central Language School offers full-time and part-time courses. Information on each of these courses can be found using the menu on the right.
We welcome students all year round and close only over the Christmas period for 2 weeks.
Your Course and your Timetable
Your course may depend on your level, so we give you a placement assessment when you arrive. You can also take the Cambridge English test, which will tell you which level you are and which exam you may be able to prepare for. This is only a rough guide, so we will advise you properly once you are studying with us.
Our Full-time courses are called General English (15 hours tuition per week) and Intensive English (21 hours tuition per week). Lessons are every morning from Monday to Friday, 09:30 until 13:00 with a coffee-break at 11:00. If you choose Intensive English there are also classes on Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday afternoons between 14:00-16:00.
We also offer a Part-time course: our Afternoon Course, which is the afternoon part of Intensive English, so on Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday afternoons between 14:00-16:00.
Course Length
You can start on any Monday (except public holidays) for a minimum of 1 week. Most students study 4–12 weeks. Some students study for up to 1 year. We can advise you on the length of course needed to achieve particular goals.
Your Class
The maximum class size is 10. You will be placed in a class according to your grammar level, speaking ability and personal aims. Using different course books you will study English through a variety of topic areas with an emphasis on spoken communication. This involves pair-work, discussions and role-play. You will also have the opportunity to extend your vocabulary and consolidate your knowledge of grammar.
Once you are studying with us, your teachers can advise you on the best exam for you. If you would like to assess your approximate level now, see this link: Cambridge English test. Some students choose to take one of the exams below:
| KET |
A2 Key (Elementary level) |
4 times per year |
| PET |
B1 Preliminary (Intermediate level) |
4 times per year |
| FCE |
B2 First (Upper intermediate level) |
4 times per year |
| CAE |
C1 Advanced (Advanced) |
4 times per year |
| CPE |
C2 Proficiency (Proficient) |
3 times per year |
| IELTS |
International English Language Testing System
(for entry to UK universities, Intermediate to Advanced levels) |
Fortnightly |
For more information on the exams, and dates for this year, please contact us. If you are taking an exam:
- The Intensive English course is the most suitable course for you
- The Exams Officer at the school will give you an exam pack and any advice on the best exam for you
- Some exam practice can be done in class and you will need to study in your own time as well
- Our library has a range of exam materials so that you can practise different parts of the exam
- You can take a mock exam at the school before you take the real exam
- You need to register for the Cambridge exams several weeks before the exam date.
- The school office can enter you for exams
- Your exam fees are NOT included in the price of your course
The General English course is 15 hours per week every morning starting at 09:30 and finishing at 13:00 with a coffee break at 11:00.
We use different course books* throughout the year from Pre-Intermediate to Advanced level. There are many opportunities for you to practise your speaking and listening as well as your pronunciation, vocabulary, reading, grammar and writing.
On Mondays you will review work from the week before and take small progress tests. You can also study a special language topic such as Phrasal Verbs or Everyday Expressions.
At the end of each week you have the opportunity to evaluate the lessons.
You may also do exam practice (for those students taking exams such as B2 First, C1 Advanced, C2 Proficiency or IELTS).
Full-time students who have studied for 2 weeks or longer will receive a certificate and a report at the end of their course.
*There is no fee for course books unless lost or damaged.
AFTERNOON COURSE
If you prefer to study only part-time, the Afternoon Course is for 6 hours per week on Tuesdays, Wednesdays and Thursdays between 14.00 and 16.00. We will need to check your English level first before we can offer you a place as the Afternoon class levels are usually higher than morning classes.
The afternoon classes focus on different language skills:
- Speaking, Listening and Pronunciation
- Reading and Use of English
- Writing
A typical week may include:
- How to find information in different texts
- How to write a formal and informal email
- Exam skills for B2 First, C1 Advanced or IELTS
- Useful language for everyday life
There is also opportunity for discussion in pairs and groups.
Afternoon students will be able to join other students for some of our social activities.
Students who wish to spend more time learning English can enrol on the Intensive English course (21 hours a week). Students on this course will join the General English classes in the morning and then attend afternoon classes on Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday afternoons from 14.00 to 16.00. Please read the General English page for information about the morning classes.
The afternoon classes focus on different language skills:
- Speaking, Listening and Pronunciation
- Reading and Use of English
- Writing.
A typical week may include:
- How to find information in different texts
- How to write a formal and informal email
- Exam skills for B2 First, C1 Advanced, C2 Proficency, IELTS
- Useful language for everyday life
There is also opportunity for discussion in pairs and groups.
We do not recommend Intensive English for students who are Pre-Intermediate level or below.
Intensive English students will be able to join other students for social activities some afternoons and evenings.