Our Story - Central Language School, Cambridge

Early 1990s

Several local Christians from different churches had the vision of setting up a Christian-run language School in Cambridge and started investigating different options. They formed a charity and became its Trustees.

1996

The Trustees opened the school with a handful of students.

1997–2013

Elizabeth Giles as Principal. Elizabeth developed CLS into a professional and caring school. It was a busy time, especially in the summer seasons. CLS grew in size considerably. First British Council inspection in 2005, then again in 2009 and 2013.

2013–2020

Joanne Venter as Principal. Joanne built upon Elizabeth Giles’ legacy, developing staff and making students feel especially welcome. British Council inspection in 2017.

2020

James Dennis became Director of Studies (started as a teacher here in 2014) & Sian Serrano became Business Manager (started as Administrator in 2003) – the Covid Pandemic almost forced us to close down but staff persisted in their efforts to keep CLS going and thanks to God’s provision of reserves saved over better previous years, we were able to survive. It was such a great joy to welcome back students after over a year of restrictions and to experience a busy, lively school once again! British Council inspection in 2022.

2026

2026 marks the 30th anniversary of CLS! Celebrations will be planned.

Over the years many wonderful teachers have worked at CLS and all staff love working here. We keep in touch with former staff and some have returned to working many years later. It’s a very supportive team.