South and City College Birmingham
About
South & City College Birmingham is one of the largest further education colleges in the Midlands and is among the largest in the country. We have 8 campuses across Birmingham, providing a wide range of courses in almost all sectors. Most of the courses are vocational in nature and range from Construction through to Sports from entry level through to university level. Our International English courses are accredited by the British Council.
Introduction
South & City College Birmingham is one of the largest further education colleges in the Midlands and is among the largest in the country. We have 8 campuses across Birmingham, providing a wide range of courses in almost all sectors. Most of the courses are vocational in nature and range from Construction through to Sports from entry level through to university level. Our International English courses are accredited by the British Council.
English Language School
Our location in the centre of Birmingham gives us access to all major travel hubs, including the airport, and is close to a wide range of available accommodation, shopping and entertainment facilities. The English Language School offers aspirational international students a unique chance to study in multinational classes with highly qualified teachers guiding and educating them throughout their learner journey. We have a strong reputation for offering high-quality classes with hugely positive teachers who encourage creativity, collaboration and independent learning, helping students to thrive in their educational journey and emerge fully prepared and equipped for higher education. These highly skilful teachers deliver personalised teaching and learning which are aligned with students’ global aspirations, assisting them to prepare for their pathway into higher education and expand their career prospects.
The English Language School has the atmosphere and benefits of being a relatively small and self-contained educational community where the students and teachers all know each other while having access to the advantages and facilities of a large multi-faculty organisation.
Students can start their course any time throughout the year. On arrival, students take our in-house initial assessment test which identifies their starting points in Speaking, Listening, Reading and Writing. The results of this test determine their placement into the most appropriate class and level.
In their first week, students attend an induction meeting with the Deputy Head of School. In this meeting, students are provided with all the information they need about the course and the college. They also discuss their current level of skills and their short and long-term goals. This information is recorded on the Starting Points profile which is shared with the student’s personal tutor.
During the course, students take weekly progress tests, the results of which are discussed with them, and advice and guidance is given on what they need to do to develop their skills further. At higher levels, the weekly progress tests are closely aligned to IELTS-type exam tasks. Students are assigned a range of written tasks and assignments to be completed in class or at home. Written work is marked using a standard marking code which encourages students to identify and correct their own mistakes.
We are strong advocates of personalised learning and ensure that we work in partnership with our students to provide a learning experience that meets their individual learning needs.
Our teachers address these individual student needs systematically and effectively. Highly effective management of classroom interaction maximises participation by all students. A range of individual, pair and group work activities are organised to ensure that all students have the opportunity to reach their full potential in each session. We concentrate on accuracy and help students to use language correctly, appropriately and confidently.
The English Language School is subject to regular inspection by the British Council. In addition to this formal inspection, the Head and Deputy of the School regularly observe all teaching staff to check the quality of teaching and learning and provide them with constructive feedback. Teachers visit and observe each other's classes and have professional conversations about the most effective teaching and learning approaches and techniques.
The English Language School provides a high-quality experience for international learners offering integrated opportunities to collaborate, critically think and develop independent learning. Students are guided and supported throughout by highly skilled teaching and support staff with the aim of enabling international learners to interact successfully in the worlds of higher education and work.
Gallery
Visa Requirements
There are 3 main visas a student will need to come to the UK to study.
Student Route Visa
If you are 16 and over and want to study a higher education level (level 3-6) in the UK lasting longer than 6 months, it is most likely that you will need to apply for a student visa through the student route (formerly known as Tier 4).
Where you can study English for more than 11 months and also bring dependants with you.
The Student Route has replaced Tier 4 in the new UK’s Points-Based Immigration System. This was introduced in October 2020, it will also apply to EU students from 1 January 2021.
Short-Term Study Visa
Where you can study English for up to 11 months or another course for 6 months.
Short-term study Documents Required
- ID Documents a current passport (with a blank page for your visa) or other valid travel document
- Application Form
- Evidence that you can support yourself during your trip, for example, bank statements or payslips for the last 6 months
- Details of where you intend to stay and your travel plans – you should not pay for accommodation or travel until you get your visa
- Evidence that you’ve paid your course fees or have enough money to pay them
Standard Visitor Visa
You can come to visit family, friends or as a tourist on a visit visa and also study English or any other course for up to 6 months.
Student Visitor Visa Documents Required
Apply for a Standard visitor visa for short-term Study:
If you need a visa, you must apply online before you travel to the UK. You can access the online form at the School website. Once you’ve started your application you can save your form and complete it later.
Proving your identity and providing supporting documents
- As part of your online application, you need to book an appointment at the Visa application centre website.
- You’ll have your fingerprints and photograph (known as ‘biometric information’) taken at your appointment.
- Allow time to attend your appointment, as the visa application centre could be in another country. The visa application centre may keep your passport and documents while processing your application.
- For more information please visit our website.
Campus Life & Facilities
Make the most of your time at college – and all of the added benefits. Take part in social events and join trips and activities to theatres, theme parks, sports events, and exhibitions.
Our Clubs
Joining a college club or society is a great way to make your time at college even more rewarding. From basketball to table tennis, film to creative writing, there’s a society to suit everyone – or, if you’ve got a great idea for a club, why not start your own? The possibilities are endless.
Free Bus Passes
Free bus passes are available to all students who meet the eligibility criteria. To apply, speak to one of our friendly Student Services team. If you’re under the age of 18 on 1st September of the current academic year, you can also apply for the 16-18 Centro Card. This entitles you to discounted fares and bus passes. If you live outside of the West Midlands Travel area and meet the eligibility criteria, you will also receive travel support. Please enquire at enrolment for further information.
Free Breakfast
If you’re an early bird, good news – breakfast is on us. We provide free and tasty breakfasts, served by our fantastic catering team, to all students who are in college before 08:30 am.
Wifi and Softwares
All students benefit from free Wi-Fi whilst at college. We also provide complimentary access to Office 365, editing software, and more via your college account.