What is the course about?
This workshop is designed to support volunteers and community workers who want to run engaging and effective ESOL conversation clubs. It focuses on how to create welcoming, interactive sessions that help English language learners build confidence, improve fluency, and connect with their communities through informal speaking practice. The training is practical in nature, offering ideas, approaches, and activities that make conversation clubs enjoyable, inclusive, and impactful.
The course is suitable for learners working at Level 2 or above. It is aimed at people who are volunteering or working in charities, libraries, or community settings, as well as those who are interested in supporting ESOL learners in their local area. No formal teaching qualification is required, although some experience of working with people in community, education, or support roles would be helpful. Priority will be given to participants working or volunteering in Westminster, RBKC, and neighbouring boroughs.
The course covers what makes an effective ESOL conversation club and how to plan engaging speaking activities that encourage participation. It explores how to create inclusive and accessible sessions for learners with different needs and language levels, as well as strategies for building confidence and encouraging communication. Participants will also consider how to manage group dynamics, respond to common challenges, and use simple, low-preparation resources based on real-life themes. There is also a focus on adapting activities so they can be used flexibly in different community settings.
The workshop will be delivered through a mix of interactive activities, group discussion, and practical demonstration. Participants will have the opportunity to take part in sample conversation activities and reflect on how these can be applied in their own settings. There is no formal assessment for this course. Instead, learning will be supported and checked through active participation, discussion, and engagement during the session.
There are no additional costs required for this course. All materials will be provided during the workshop. Participants may wish to bring a notebook and pen for their own notes, although this is optional.
By the end of the workshop, participants should be able to plan and run simple and engaging ESOL conversation club sessions with confidence. They will be able to use inclusive strategies to support learners at different levels, encourage participation, and manage confidence within groups. They will also be able to adapt activities for a range of community settings, respond effectively to common challenges, and create a welcoming and supportive learning environment.
Following completion of this training, participants may wish to progress onto further ESOL teaching or support training, or volunteering and employment opportunities within ESOL or adult learning settings. There are also opportunities to develop skills further through advanced workshops focused on intercultural and communication skills, or to go on to design and lead their own community conversation clubs.
