English Language Support Programme
Ashbourne offers a comprehensive English language programme for international students so they can confidently undertake their academic studies and attain the language proficiency required for all UK universities. From the start of Year 12, students are timetabled for two hours per week in small-group lessons.
These interactive sessions prepare students for success in all four sections of the IELTS test: Speaking, Listening, Reading and Writing. They also ensure students are well-equipped to achieve the highest possible band scores, opening doors to the most competitive UK universities and meeting specific visa requirements where needed.
Alongside IELTS exam preparation, students develop key academic English skills such as essay writing, expressing ideas clearly, improving grammar and spelling, and refining the sophistication of their language. These skills not only help them achieve top IELTS scores but also support success across a range of A level subjects.
IELTS lessons are just one way we help students develop their English at Ashbourne. Our college policy requires all staff and students to speak English at all times while on campus. This approach ensures everyone feels included and creates an immersive environment that encourages regular use of the language, leading to gradual improvement in fluency. Small class sizes also promote frequent discussions, giving students even more opportunities to practice and refine their skills.
We encourage students whose first language is not English to take part in the Extended Project Qualification (EPQ). This independent, research-based programme typically involves producing a 5,000-word essay and is an excellent way to strengthen academic English skills.
Another valuable opportunity is our mentoring programme. Students can be mentored by peers in the year above, and once they reach Year 13, they can mentor others. Whether as a mentor or mentee, these interactions help build communication skills and expand vocabulary in a natural and supportive setting.
We understand that adjusting to speaking English daily can be challenging for some students. That’s why additional support is always available. Students can request help at any time, and we will take every step necessary to ensure they feel supported. This may include arranging one-to-one subject-specific sessions with someone fluent in both English and the student’s native language, so they can better grasp the content while learning important subject terminology.
At Ashbourne, our goal is to help every student gain the confidence and skills to thrive in an English-speaking academic environment.