English in the Community
English in the Community (EITC) is an independent UK Charity founded by
three immigrant English language teachers who met on
a teacher training course providing free language lessons for local
migrants. These three evolved a new style of ESOL teaching with English
language lessons developed around real life
situations.
As immigrants themselves, they knew the difficulties their students faced when adjusting to life in a new country. They were also aware of the benefits to non-native people of understanding more about their new community by participating in voluntary work, gaining a sense of belonging and greater insight. They decided to found an organisation based on these principals and in April 2007 opened the doors of their new school to a flood of waiting applicants.
EITC's common sense approach to language learning has inspired other groups, whilst the success of community projects conceived and undertaken by its students and volunteers has highlighted the positive social contribution that non-native people can offer.
EITC also provides opportunities for qualified ESOL teachers, teaching assistants and skilled migrants, and has a superb track record in providing quality training and work experience enabling volunteers to turn their aspirations to reality.
The Charity employs a holistic approach in all its endeavours; using positive feedback from both learners and volunteers to continue to develop new language teaching and community projects providing tangible, long lasting benefits to all concerned.
Working in partnership with a wide range of organisations, educational establishments, agencies and businesses, EITC's remit is to highlight the value of the work its partners have to offer, often using publicity via the media.
The Charity is run entirely by volunteers, with all English language courses provided free of charge. EITC does not have an established base, preferring instead to 'hot desk' or rent rooms from other community groups to ensure flexibility and optimal use of funding for projects.
By June 2009, just 26 months after its inception, over 250 learners from more than 30 countries have attended EITC classes in Eastbourne, Hastings and St. Leonards. More than 60 volunteers have received training and work experience in a friendly and supportive environment. In an increasingly difficult climate, English in the Community continues to go from strength to strength, leading the way with new innovations in community language learning and migrant lead social projects.
E-mail: info@englishinthecommunity.org.uk
Website: www.englishinthecommunity.org.uk