The IELTS Preparation Course

This is a short, very intensive course taught in small groups (average 7 - 10 students) to make you familiar with the format of the IELTS test and with the type of language it requires.

There are two parts to the course, each part taking one week. You are encouraged to take both parts of the course but it may be possible for you to take only one part if a place is available.

Preparation course dates

November 2007 05, 19
December 2007 03
January 2008 07, 28
February 2008 25
March 2008 31
April 2008 21
May 2008 19
June 2008 02, 23
July 2008 07, 28
August 2008 11, 26 (Tue)
September 2008 08
October 2008 06
November 2008 03, 17
December 2008 01

Part 1: Reading & Writing for IELTS

Unlike other exams IELTS specifically tests your ability to use English for academic or training purposes. This part of the course will help you adapt your existing language skills to interpret and employ the distinctive patterns of academic English.

You will spend a part of each day reading and reviewing academic texts and writing assignments to strict time limits, helped by teachers experienced in the requirements of the examination.

Preparing to take IELTS

There are four modules in the IELTS test: Listening, Reading, Writing and Speaking. This part of the course will give you intensive practice in each module, making sure you know exactly how to make best use of your time. You will do practice tests in each skill under exam conditions and specialist teachers will give you feedback on your performance to help you improve.

A typical day on the IELTS preparation course

NB: This is intended to give a general idea of the course. Each course varies with the needs and abilities of the participants.

0830 - 0915 The college's self-access facilities are open for private study..
0915 - 1045 First class with your main tutor. You review your homework and work on related language skills.
1045 - 1115 Coffee in the Cafeteria
1115 - 1215 Group class with your second tutor. You work on practical exam skills.
1215 - 1315 First tutorial period. Students are assigned practice tasks while the tutor works with individuals and small groups.
1315 - 1345 Lunch.
1345 - 1430 Second tutorial period. Another chance to consult your main tutor.
1430 - 1515 Third group class. Your tutor gives feedback to the group on general points arising from individual work.
1515 - 1530 Tea break
1530 - 1630 A fourth group class to summarise the day's work. Your tutor assigns homework tasks for the evening.