The Heart of the ESOL Community:
It’s been an eventful couple of weeks for our ESOL team — with paramedics called out three times in just two weeks.
Despite the unexpected and sometimes difficult situations, something beautiful happened: the students came together. After each incident, they supported one another, comforted those who were unwell, and then calmly carried on with their lessons.
The paramedics who attended were incredibly kind and patient, taking time to communicate with students who spoke very little English. Meanwhile, our ESOL and Casework teams worked hand-in-hand to make sure everyone affected — including families and children — received the care and support they needed.
At times, things got a little chaotic. One class suddenly had to welcome eight extra students; another day, children joined the lesson when childcare wasn’t possible. But no one complained — everyone simply rallied together, adapting with kindness and humour.
One student, who had fallen ill, later said how deeply cared for she felt by everyone. Another, known for her gentle, motherly nature, immediately stepped in to help look after others.
It was especially moving because this same student — just a year ago — couldn’t hold a pen or say her own name and address in English. Recently, she demonstrated that she could confidently share her details and describe an emergency situation over the phone to a paramedic. That’s an extraordinary transformation.
Learning English, Building Confidence, Finding Belonging
The King’s Arms Project ESOL programme began in 2017 and now runs five days a week, helping refugees and migrants build language skills and confidence as they integrate into life in the UK.
Our classes include:
- Pre-entry English for resettled refugees
- English Language Club for practical skills and social connection
- Bespoke English lessons for European migrants
- Online literacy and conversation classes
- 1-to-1 tutoring for those who can’t regularly attend group sessions
Every lesson is taught by qualified ESOL tutors who understand the challenges refugees and migrants face. We also provide an on-site crèche, allowing parents to focus on learning while their children are cared for by an experienced, compassionate team.
Lessons are designed to teach real-life skills — from booking appointments and using public transport, to shopping and accessing healthcare. The goal is always the same: to help learners live independently, find belonging, and build a hopeful future.
Community in Action
The past few weeks reminded us that ESOL is about much more than learning English. It’s about community — people standing together, caring for one another, and finding their voice, even in the most stressful moments.
Because when compassion and resilience come together in one classroom, that’s when true learning — and real change — begins.
