Contact Us
Portsmouth English Language School
15-16 Hampshire Terrace,
Portsmouth,
Hampshire,
United Kingdom,
PO1 2QF
02392 736662
info@portsmouthels.co.uk
Or, for your convenience complete our ready made contact form!
Frequently Asked Questions
1. How long can I come to Portsmouth English Language School for?
One week is the shortest course we offer.
2. What if I don’t speak any English?
Don’t worry! We will look after you during your stay and your English will start to improve as soon as your course begins from Day One. If you stay with a Host family, you will learn even more quickly by interacting every day with them outside the classroom.
3. What is the minimum age required to study at PELS?
Our courses are for adults (over 18s) and we also welcome groups of 11-17 year olds, especially in the Summer when we have special sports, fun activities and excursion adventures for the younger students.
4. What ages and nationalities?
As our reputation grows, we attract more attention from a wider variety of countries. Most of our students are in their 20s. Our youngest are the Junior Learners aged 11, and our oldest student so far has been…
5. What is the class size?
Classes are usually up to 12 students (rising to a maximum of 15 at peak times). We have ten modern classrooms in our completely refurbished building, all of which are bright, comfortable and spacious with new furniture and equipment. Our flagship classroom has an interactive whiteboard for lessons using multimedia.
6. Can I come to the school any time?
Yes, we have what we call a ‘rolling’ enrolment here at PELS. We welcome students throughout the year, working to flexible timetable arrangements that allow us to adapt according to changing student numbers and their individual needs. Our experienced teachers will help you feel quickly at home in your classroom, whatever your level, whenever you join.
7. Are you accredited externally?
Yes, Portsmouth English Language School courses are British Council accredited (www.britishcouncil.org/accreditation-az-list.htm). We are also an Anglia and ASCENTIS examinations centre offering students the opportunity to sit formally recognised English exams, gaining qualifications towards future prospects. We are also licensed by the UK Border Agency to sponsor overseas students. Our Sponsorship Licence Number is WJADMB8T7. We are A-rated. www.bia.homeoffice.gov.uk/studyingintheuk
We are proud to be the first and, currently, the only OFSTED registered language school in Portsmouth who therefore keep fully up to date with all legal requirements involving the tuition and care of younger students.
8. Can you help me with future studies and prospects?
Yes, we have formal agreements in place with the University of Portsmouth and with Chichester College and the University of Chichester, in our neighbouring county of Sussex. We can assist with progression routes to Under and Postgraduate courses, helping you gain the IELTS grades required for an offer on your desired course. We are delighted to help our more advanced students stay in this beautiful area of England, which so many students come to love when they have studied here.
9. How do you know which level to put me in?
You complete a placement test and an informal one-to-one welcome ‘interview’ when you arrive at the school. The test results and this assessment of your overall English skills will determine your class/level.
10. What if I find it too difficult or too easy - can I change my level?
This should be discussed with your teacher first. Based on your performance in class and on your homework, they can advise you on the best level for you. Any continuing queries can be directed to the Director of Studies.
11. At the end of my course will I get a certificate?
Yes, subject to satisfactory completion of and attendance during your course, you will receive an official Portsmouth English Language School certificate with a signed report showing the course you took, your course dates and any results you achieved.
12. Is there a library/IT study area in the college?
We have an excellent Internet café and wireless network available for student use and also a small library in the school.
13. Can I get a Student Visa through the School?
Yes. Providing that you meet the conditions of Entry, an electronic Confirmation of Acceptance of Studies (CAS) from Portsmouth English Language School should enable you to obtain a student visa for up to a year of study (and one year’s extension later on if you wish). Having a student visa means that you have a commitment to our school and to your studies. Please contact us for further details.
14. Can I pay in instalments?
For courses of 6 months or more, it is possible to pay in 4-weekly instalments as long as 25% deposit was initially received by the school. Please contact us for more information.
15. Can I take holiday during my course?
For those on a student visa, there are limits on holidays during your course (please ask for full Terms & Conditions). For non-Visa students, please advise of dates you will not be present before you start your course, and we can arrange not charge you for these dates.
16. How do I get from the airport to Portsmouth?
If you wish, we can book a taxi for you. Also, there are good bus and train services from all the airports in Southern England to Portsmouth, please contact us if you need help.
17. Where can I stay in Portsmouth?
Most of our students stay with host families (home-stay), but there are several alternatives:
- Host family (Homestay and Homestay Deluxe) - the most popular choice of Accommodation.
- Hotels - the school can arrange for you to stay in a hotel or guest house, but this will be more expensive than staying with a family.
- Bed and Breakfast – these are small family-run places and they are quite cheap in comparison with hotels.
- The school can arrange for you to rent an apartment, but this will not be possible for a period of less than 3 months.
18. What if I want to leave my accommodation?
You have to give us and the host family two weeks’ notice.