LANGUAGE
CLASSES
Learn another language in a fun, friendly and informal environment.
WE ARE NOT CURRENTLY RUNNING ANY LANGUAGE CLASSES
HOWEVER WE HOPE TO HAVE THEM BACK UP AND RUNNING AS SOON AS POSSIBLE
THANK YOU FOR YOUR PATIENCE
Our Classes
All year round we run a programme of friendly, fun and informal language classes. The classes are taught by our team of dedicated volunteers.
We offer English classes at various levels as well as a wide range of other languages, typically including Spanish, French, German, Arabic, Mandarin, Italian, Korean, Russian, Japanese and more on offer.
Our classes usually run for 10 weeks, taking place once a week on campus.
Upcoming Classes
level
Language Levels
We use the CEFR (Common European Framework of Reference for Languages) as a guide to help you self-select your class. With so many different languages, we are unable to offer a testing system. Once you’ve joined a class, if you feel that you need a different level then get in touch and we can move you to a more suitable class if one is available.
Beginners
(equivalent to European Language Level A1)
The student has had none or little contact with the language though the student might be familiar with a few words, expressions and grammar basics.
Elementary
(equivalent to European Language Level A2)
Can understand sentences and frequently used expressions related to areas of most immediate relevance (e.g. very basic personal and family information, shopping, local geography, employment). Can communicate in simple and routine tasks requiring a simple and direct exchange of information on familiar and routine matters. Can describe in simple terms aspects of their background, immediate environment and matters in areas of immediate need.
Intermediate
(equivalent to European Language Level B1)
Can understand the main ideas of complex text on both concrete and abstract topics, including technical discussions in his/her field of specialisation. Can interact with a degree of fluency and spontaneity that makes regular interaction with native speakers quite possible without strain for either party.
Can produce clear, detailed text on a wide range of subjects and explain a viewpoint on a topical issue giving the advantages and disadvantages of various options.
Advanced
(equivalent to European Language Level C1)
Can understand a wide range of demanding, longer texts, and recognise implicit meaning. Can express him/herself fluently and spontaneously without much obvious searching for expressions. Can use language flexibly and effectively for social, academic and professional purposes. Can produce clear, well-structured, detailed text on complex subjects, showing controlled use of organisational patterns, connectors and cohesive devices.
faq
Frequently Asked Questions
Tell me about the classes
How do I register for a class?
You can either register online, or you can drop into our office on the ground floor of the University of Manchester Students’ Union on Oxford Road and register there. Please be aware that our more popular classes can fill up very quickly so make sure to register as early as you can to avoid disappointment.
Where do the classes usually take place?
Most of our classes will take place on the University of Manchester campus. You can find a map and our full address here. When you arrive for your first class, report to our office on the ground floor of the UMSU and a member of staff will inform you of the exact location of your class and help you to find it.
Can I try a class (NO!)?
You must register in full for a class before you are able to attend. It is extremely disruptive for both students and teachers if people try to attend lessons without registering first. Our volunteer teachers will require students to show a confirmation and photo ID so anyone found trying to attend lessons without registering will be removed from the class and may be banned from attending classes at the International Society in the future.
How much does it cost?
How old do I have to be?
Our classes are strictly for adults (over-18’s) only. Unfortunately we are unable to provide classes for younger students.
Can I change class?
If you find the class you have joined is not suitable, you can be transferred into a different class with available spaces before the second class has taken place.
Do I get a qualification?
We are not an accredited language school and cannot provide a formal qualification. However we are very happy to provide you with an official letter of attendance from the International Society.
Who are the teachers?
All of the language teachers at the International Society are volunteers. In many cases they have qualifications and/or experience as a teacher but also many may be teaching for the first time in order to gain experience. Please be supportive of the teachers as they are giving their time and energy for free.
How do refunds work?
A refund can be claimed before your second class if you no longer wish to attend. In this instance a refund will be given for the remaining classes. Alternatively, if the class you have joined is not suitable, you can be transferred into a different class with available spaces before the second class. A cancellation charge of £1.00 per class is applicable.
If by the end of term a teacher has been absent and has been unable to offer replacement classes a refund will be given for each class that didn’t take place. Please note that replacement classes may not take place at the original day and time of the classes.
Refunds will not be given for classes that you have missed.
CALL US
0161 275 2930
Email Us
info@internationalsociety.org.uk
find us
International Society,
c/o UMSU, Oxford Road,
Manchester, M13 9PR