English Language Centre of Excellence

Language that Unlocks Academic Success

At Earlscliffe, we believe that language should never be the limiting factor in a student’s academic success.

Our English Centre of Excellence provides specialist English provision designed specifically for international students studying the British curriculum. More than just exam preparation, our programme offers a rich, immersive and personalised approach to English that empowers students to thrive both inside and outside the classroom.

Official test centre for both Cambridge and IELTS examinations

While we proudly prepare students for internationally recognised qualifications such as IELTS and a full suite of Cambridge English exams (PET, FCE, CAE and CPE), our support goes far beyond test technique.

As an accredited Cambridge centre, the school can offer students the opportunity to sit these exams right here on campus, removing the stress and disruption of travelling to external test centres.

Our English Centre of Excellence focuses on developing:

  • English for Academic Purposes (EAP)
  • Subject-specific terminology
  • Academic writing and argument
  • Examination technique
  • Confident spoken English

This holistic approach ensures students can fully access their GCSE and A-level subjects, express their ideas clearly, and perform at their true academic potential.

“Supporting learners at every level and helping them reach their goals is at the heart of what we do.” 

Lana Golubeva, English Curriculum Manager

Dedicated English Language Experts

Language learning at Earlscliffe is designed to be immersive, dynamic and deeply relevant. Under the leadership of Miss Lana Golubeva, the English Language Centre of Excellence has been expanded to not only teach English, but to bring it vividly to life.

Miss Golubeva and her team bring a wealth of international experience and an infectious passion for language learning. They champion a curriculum built around the interests, ambitions and everyday experiences of our students. Whether a student is pursuing GCSEs or A-levels, their English lessons are carefully tailored to complement both their academic studies and personal passions.

Engaging Lessons

Our lessons use clear imagery and visual resources to make new vocabulary memorable and meaningful. From discussions on global business trends to debates on modern art, every class is infused with relevance, creativity and energy.

Students are encouraged to speak, question, debate and collaborate. Lessons frequently involve:

  • Group work and discussions
  • Problem-solving activities
  • Real-world scenarios
  • Presentations and debates

These experiences not only strengthen language skills but also develop essential life skills such as critical thinking, collaboration and self-confidence.

Additional English Pathways

To further support confident communication and performance, students can also access additional English enrichment pathways, including:

  • LAMDA (London Academy of Music & Dramatic Art)
  • English Speaking Board (ESB)

These programmes help students develop fluency, clarity, and presence in spoken English, building skills that are invaluable for presentations, interviews and university life.

From Beginners to Top Universities

Whether a student arrives with beginner-level English or is aiming for top IELTS scores to access the very best universities in the UK, the English Language Centre of Excellence provides the structure, support and inspiration needed to succeed.