English for speakers of other languages (ESOL)
We aim to give adults for whom English is not their first language the opportunity to access courses which increase confidence and language skills and help with:
- gaining work or progressing in work
- preparation for further learning and training opportunities
- integrating into their local communities
- supporting their families and their children at school
Our courses
We offer a range of ESOL courses at different levels from pre-entry for absolute beginners up to level 2.
The courses develop a full range of skills and competencies in English speaking, listening, reading and writing.
All courses include:
- grammar
- study skills
- British values
- how to be safe
- employability
- communication skills for life and work in the UK
Courses are delivered in community venues across West Sussex and online by qualified, specialist tutors.
We welcome refugees or asylum seekers to apply for our ESOL courses.
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ESOL classes at West Sussex Adult Learning are free for adults:
- aged 19 or over on 31 August 2025
- who currently live in England and are ordinarily resident in the UK on the first day of learning
We are not able to fund classes for individuals who do not meet the eligibility criteria.
Examples of individuals who do not meet the eligibility criteria include (but are not limited to) those:
- who are in the UK without authority or lawful status
- who are resident in the UK on a student or graduate visa
- who are in the UK on holiday, with or without a visa
- who are in the UK on a sponsorship visa, including skilled worker and seasonal worker visas
- whose biometric residence permit or residence permit includes a study prohibition or restriction
If you are an asylum seeker, you may be eligible if you have lived in the UK for 6 months or more while the Home Office is considering your claim.
Most of our ESOL classes for Term 1 begin in September. If you want to join, register your interest using the apply now button below.
Apply now (external link)We cannot guarantee places on our ESOL courses. They are subject to:
- eligibility checks
- language levels
- availability
If you have further questions, email ESOL@westsussex.gov.uk.
How to register your interest
Before joining an ESOL course you need to register your interest using the apply now button.
Registering your interest will help us carry out an initial eligibility check and understand where you are able to study. Once registered, we can assess your application.
Learners who are eligible will be invited to a skills assessment, subject to availability. At the skills assessment we will:
- assess your skill levels
- discuss your goals
- recommend the right course for you
At the skills assessment you will need to provide the following documents as part of your assessment. This allows us to check your eligibility and complete your enrolment. Without the following documents your enrolment may not be completed at the point of assessment:
- evidence of your identity and residency
- evidence of benefits claimed in the last three months
- payslips from the previous three months (if you are employed)