Business Details
50+ Years
experience
Trusted English Language Courses in Reading
Established in 1973, we are a family-owned English language school in Reading, Berkshire, with over 50 years of experience in teaching English to international students. Our mission is to provide high-quality, creative language education through experienced native-speaking teachers who utilise the 'Laugh, Learn, and Succeed' methodology. We offer General English courses at multiple levels, exam preparation for IELTS, Cambridge, and Trinity College qualifications, and flexible scheduling options to accommodate diverse learner needs.Our small class sizes (4-12 students) ensure personalised attention, while our accreditation by ASIC with Premier Status and UKVI approval for visa support demonstrate our commitment to educational excellence. We pride ourselves on creating a welcoming, homely atmosphere where students from over 30 nationalities have consistently achieved improved English proficiency and cultural integration since our founding.
Services
General English
Intensive English
Exam Preparation
Flexible Schedules
Accommodation Assistance
Visa Support
Closed Group Courses
Online Placement Testing
Progress Monitoring
Cultural Integration
Details
- Year established: 1973
Highlights and features
- Over 50 years of experience teaching English with native-speaking, qualified instructors
- No registration, book, or accommodation finder fees
- Flexible study options from 2-5 days per week
- Small class sizes (4-15 students) for personalised attention
- Official UKVI approval for visa student support
Associations and certifications
- ASIC (Accreditation Service for International Schools, Colleges, and Universities)
- UKVI (UK Visas and Immigration)
What people say
Excellent teachers
Friendly staff
Improved English
Confident speakers
Memorable experience
Services
General English
Our General English courses cater to students from beginner (CEFR A1+) to upper intermediate (CEFR B2++) levels. With 15, 12, 9, or 6 hours per week options, these programmes focus on improving speaking, listening, reading, writing, and pronunciation skills. Students benefit from experienced native-speaking teachers using the 'Laugh, Learn, and Succeed' methodology in small classes of 4-15 students.
Exam Preparation
We offer targeted preparation for major English language examinations including IELTS, Cambridge, and Trinity College qualifications. Our courses help students achieve required scores for university admission (minimum IELTS 4.0 for B1 level) through structured practice in all four language skills. Teachers provide specific strategies for exam success while maintaining our friendly, supportive learning environment.
Flexible Scheduling
Students can choose from 2-5 days per week attendance options with morning classes (9:30am-12:30pm) available year-round. This flexibility allows professionals, au pairs, and busy individuals to balance language learning with other commitments while maintaining access to our experienced instructors and comprehensive teaching materials.
Accommodation Assistance
We provide home stay accommodation arrangements to immerse students in authentic English environments. Our carefully selected host families offer single rooms with breakfast and evening meals, creating opportunities for informal language practice and cultural exchange. This support extends to visa students requiring official accommodation confirmation for their applications.
Visa Support
As a UKVI-approved provider, we offer official documentation for Tier 4 student visas and other UK immigration purposes. Our visa support includes course confirmation letters, attendance certificates, and compliance with Home Office requirements for international students studying English in the UK.
People
San Mc Burney
Principal and Director
Founder of ELC in 1973, Mr. Mc Burney has over 50 years' experience in language education. He established the school's reputation for innovation and quality, creating a welcoming environment where students consistently achieve their language goals.
Ellie
Senior Teacher
Experienced English instructor specialising in general language courses. Known for her engaging teaching style, Ellie has helped numerous students improve their English proficiency and confidence through interactive, student-centred lessons.
Bianca
English Teacher
Popular instructor praised for clear explanations and patient approach. Bianca focuses on practical language application, helping students overcome initial language barriers and develop conversational fluency through structured yet enjoyable lessons.
Olena
Student Coordinator
Key contact for student support services, Olena assists with course placement, accommodation arrangements, and cultural integration. Her organisational skills ensure smooth transitions for international students arriving in the UK.
Questions
What English courses do you offer?
We provide General English courses at levels CEFR A1+ to B2++, exam preparation for IELTS, Cambridge, and Trinity College qualifications, and closed group courses for specific purposes.
Are there any additional fees?
No hidden charges apply. Our fees include all materials, with no registration, book, or accommodation finder fees required.
Do you support visa applications?
As a UKVI-approved provider, we offer official documentation for Tier 4 student visas and other immigration purposes.
What accommodation options exist?
We arrange home stay accommodation with local families, providing single rooms with meals and opportunities for cultural exchange.
How flexible are your schedules?
Students choose 2-5 days weekly with morning classes (9:30am-12:30pm) available year-round, including summer sessions.
What makes ELC unique?
Our combination of 50+ years' experience, small class sizes (4-15 students), native-speaking teachers, and 'Laugh, Learn, Succeed' methodology creates an effective, enjoyable learning environment.
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