Founded in 1934, the British Council is the UK’s international organization for educational opportunities and cultural relations. It works in over 100 countries in civil society, education, arts and culture, and the English language. Through broadcasts, publications, and the internet, the British Council reaches millions each year. It’s registered as a charity in England, Wales, and Scotland. It’s free to audit courses developed by the organization with the option to add a certificate for a fee. Here are the top 10 courses offered by the British Council:
English for the Workplace
Duration: 4 weeks
This 4-week course is targeted at those learning English for employment. Each week, students will watch videos and hear audio of people looking and applying for jobs and interviews. Recordings will cover conversations with colleagues, as well. The tutor takes a closer look at the language to highlight how students can improve their English within a workplace environment. Quizzes and discussions will help students practice. This course best for non-native English speakers who have studied the language at the pre-intermediate level.
English in Early Childhood: Language Learning and Development
Duration: 6 weeks
This course is for parents and practitioners interested in exploring how children learn English. Educators with the British Council share their experiences and knowledge on ESL for children, as well as other aspects of early childhood learning and development. Using videos, articles, live events, and discussions, students in this course gain insight from experts and parents. If you are an English teacher, early childhood practitioner, and/or a parent with a child who doesn’t speak English, this is a very useful course. It’s best suited for students who are at an intermediate level with English or who have a B1 on the CEFR. The course takes 6 weeks with a 2-hour per week commitment.
Teaching English: How To Plan A Great Lesson
Duration: 4 weeks
In this course, students learn how to plan and develop lessons for teaching English. They’ll learn about technology and flashcards, as well as how to understand a student’s needs and keep them engaged. There are four professional practices that the course focuses on. Students are also given the opportunity to share their experiences. The course is intended for English language teachers at primary, secondary, or higher levels.
Exploring English: Language and Culture
Duration: 6 weeks
In this course, students learn about British life and culture while improving their language skills. Through short videos filmed in Great Britain, students develop better listening skills. They’ll see how English is used in everyday situations. Topics include art, the countryside, music, and English as a global language. This is one of two courses from the British Council’s Exploring English collection. It’s designed for non-native speakers at an intermediate level or with a B1 on the CEFR.
Understanding IELTS: Speaking
Duration: 3 weeks
This course focuses on the speaking section of the IELTS. Students take a close look at the three parts and become familiar with the four assessment criteria. With practice and tips, students will feel more confident and prepared. In addition to those preparing for the IELTS, the course is useful for IELTS teachers.
Understanding IELTS: Reading
Duration: 3 weeks
The reading part of the IELTS consists of different tasks such as multiple choice and true/false. This course breaks down the format and provides techniques to help students prepare for the tasks and vocab. The goal is to know what to expect on test day and exercise strong reading techniques. ELTS teachers can benefit from this course, as well.
Understanding IELTS: Listening
Duration: 3 weeks
Another course designed for those prepping to take the IELTS (or those teaching it), “Understanding IELTS: Listening” focuses on the listening test. Students will become with the format and assessment criteria. The course tutor will also provide English listening strategies and tips.
Understanding IELTS: Writing
Duration: 3 weeks
This British Council course explores the writing part of the IELTS, helping students prepare for academic writing. It focuses on the format and strategies for tackling Task 1 and Task 2. Task 1 involves looking at graphs and charts and writing a brief report. Task 2 is a formal essay, so the course teaches students how to plan, write, and check their work. Students will also become familiar with the assessment criteria.
Language Assessment in the Classroom
Duration: 4 weeks
This course teaches the principles of language assessment, which has become increasingly important over the past 15 years. With the guidance of test developers and experts, students learn how different tests are developed, how they’re applied, and practical techniques. The course is best suited to language teachers in secondary or high schools with at least a CEFR B1 English proficiency. Previous knowledge of assessment is not required.
Migrants and Refugees in Education: A Toolkit for Teachers
Duration: 4 weeks
This course focuses on the challenges that come with teaching migrant and refugee learners. Experienced teachers share their stories and offer strategies they’ve used. Students who take this course will learn about global trends in migration and displacement, as well as how to support learners dealing with trauma.