Students aged 11 - 15
SBC Canford
General English
In our fun, collaborative and engaging lessons, students develop their English language knowledge, specifically improving their understanding of vocabulary, grammar, pronunciation, reading and writing.
Mastering Everyday Communication
Welcome to General English, a dynamic English language programme designed for students aged 11-15 who are eager to improve their English skills in a supportive and engaging environment. At Canford School, we believe that learning English should be both fun and effective. Our course is tailored to help you build confidence in your speaking, listening, reading, and writing abilities, while also giving you the opportunity to immerse yourself in English through interactive activities and cultural experiences.
General English
At a Glance
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Price
From £3,695
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Ages
11-15
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English Level
A1+
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Duration
2 weeks
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Maximum Class Size
15
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Academic Content
15 Hours of Lessons per Week
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Starting Dates
7th July, 21st July and 28th July 2025
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Language Support
Included
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Location
Canford School
Course Objectives and Modules
Over the course of this two-week programme, you will:
- Engage in collaborative learning by working with peers on group tasks and projects, enhancing team-building and negotiation skills.
- Participate in role-playing tasks to practice English in realistic situations, fostering adaptability and quick thinking.
- Gain confidence in expressing opinions and reaching consensus within a team setting.
- Develop global awareness through exposure to diverse cultural perspectives and exploration of international issues.
- Discuss and analyse pressing global concerns, cultivating an understanding of the significance of language in worldwide contexts.
- Sharpen critical thinking by questioning and reassessing concepts, promoting problem-solving and innovation.
Module 1: Building Confidence in Listening and Speaking
In this module, you’ll focus on improving your speaking and listening skills. Through conversations, role-plays, and interactive games, you’ll practice everyday English, learn new vocabulary, and become more comfortable communicating in different situations. Whether you’re ordering food at a restaurant or having a chat with friends, this module will help you speak English more naturally and understand spoken English with greater ease.
Module 2: Strengthening Reading and Writing Skills
This module is all about enhancing your reading and writing abilities. You’ll explore a variety of texts, from short stories to news articles, to improve your reading comprehension and vocabulary. On the writing side, you’ll practice crafting sentences, paragraphs, and short essays, focusing on clear expression and correct grammar. This module is designed to help you become a more confident and capable reader and writer in English.
Module 3: Exploring English Culture and Communication
In the final module, you’ll delve into English culture and learn how language is used in different contexts. You’ll explore British traditions, popular culture, and everyday life through activities, projects, and discussions. This module will not only improve your language skills but also give you a deeper understanding of the cultural nuances that make English unique. By the end of this module, you’ll be able to communicate more effectively in both formal and informal settings.
By using what you have learned in challenging group work projects, you will increase your fluency and self-confidence in using English, which will help prepare you for the challenges at school and later on at university.
Through gaining a deeper comprehension of English students will be able to:
- Feel more comfortable contributing in class and giving presentations.
- Feel better equipped for future academic tasks.
- Feel more comfortable listening and engaging in English-speaking environments by surrounding yourself with English speakers from around the world and practising your listening comprehension.
Time to Shine Project
Develop your public speaking skills. Share your passion. Inspire your classmates.
Today, delivering excellent presentations is a crucial skill for achieving both academic and professional success. Our programmes reflect this by having the ‘art of presenting’ at the heart of their content, and allow you to discover new confidence when using English in public situations.
It’s more than just a chance to enhance your public speaking skills, though; it’s an opportunity for you to develop your ability to communicate clearly in English, and share your passion and subject knowledge with your fellow classmates. Through your presentations, you will become sources of inspiration, and encourage others to delve deeper into your subject.
Innovation for a Better Future: Empowering Solutions in a Changing World
This engaging programme focuses on improving English skills while fostering creativity, critical thinking, and a deeper understanding of global challenges. Through exciting projects like sustainable city designs, environmental conservation initiatives, and exploring the ethical use of AI and technology, students are encouraged to develop innovative solutions to modern-day problems. By delving into topics such as smart technology, cultural exploration, and climate action, they will gain the tools to navigate a rapidly evolving world.
At the weekly Time to Shine ceremony, students present their projects with confidence, building public speaking skills and celebrating their achievements in front of their peers. This programme empowers students to become more informed, confident, and ready to engage with the world as forward-thinking global citizens.
Download The Academic Overview
Get a detailed insight into our General English programme, designed to inspire and challenge students in a dynamic learning environment. This academic overview includes:
✔ Course objectives and key learning outcomes
✔ A breakdown of academic content and skills development
✔ Sample timetables outlining daily lesson plan
✔ Engaging projects and interactive learning experiences
✔ How this course helps students build confidence, critical thinking, and leadership skills
Download now to explore how General English equips students with the knowledge and experience to excel.
Our Approach to Your Learning
Skills + Language = Success!
At Canford School, our approach to learning in the General English course is centered on making language learning an enjoyable and enriching experience. We use a variety of interactive methods, including group activities, multimedia resources, and real-life scenarios, to help you engage with the language in meaningful ways. Our friendly and experienced teachers are here to support you every step of the way, providing personalised feedback and encouragement to help you reach your language goals. Whether you’re looking to improve your English for school, travel, or just for fun, our course is designed to help you succeed in a relaxed and welcoming environment.
I am definitely more social now
I’ve learnt a lot in my English class that I wouldn’t have learnt in school and I am definitely more social now
Emily, Headington Oxford, United Kingdom - Student
General English
What's Included?
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15 Hours of Academic Content Per Week
Students receive 15 hours of subject-specific academic content per week with an experienced teacher, delivered through interactive and hands-on lessons.
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Time To Shine Projects
Opportunities to apply and share this knowledge through dynamic ‘Time To Shine’ group projects, culminating in an end-of-the-week ceremony in which you can present your innovative ideas to your peers.
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Develop English Language Skills
Numerous opportunities throughout your academic programme to develop your English language skills, whether that’s building vocabulary to talk about your subject, or developing your speaking skills to present your Time To Shine project.
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Social Programme
Each week you’ll explore new skills through our high-energy programmes including sports, performing arts, creative arts, tech and survival academy. You’ll also have the opportunity to showcase your unique abilities in our talent showcase and celebratory disco nights!
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Excursions
Travel to well-known UK locations on adventures they won’t soon forget, from a thrilling thrill-seekers’ dream at Thorpe Park to inspiring cultural excursions in the capital.
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End of Course Report and Certificate
General English
Dates & Prices
FAQs for General English at SBC Canford
How is my child’s level of English assessed?
Before the summer, your Admissions Manager will send your child(ren) an online placement test to complete. We will receive the test result and place students in a classroom suited for their level of English. For example, if a student tests as Intermediate (B1), then they will be placed into a classroom with other intermediate-level learners. This ensures the lessons are as targeted and beneficial as possible from the outset.
How challenging is Canford General English?
General English is for all levels. Depending on the group’s competency with English and ability to absorb new material, our teachers can adapt to make the lessons inclusive for all.
Do students receive a certificate?
Yes. Each student who completes General English at Canford receives a Certification of Achievement and a report from their teacher at the end of the course.
Do students need to buy course books?
No, we provide coursebooks for students to use throughout the course. Teachers will also provide handouts to students that they can take away with them at the end of the summer.
What do students need to take to class?
We provide stationery for students including SBC pens as well as Canford Summer School handbooks which students can keep. These valuable tools contain all the information students need as well as lined pages for their writing work during the course.
Speak with a member of our friendly admissions team
We’re happy to answer any questions you have and support you in finding the perfect experience.