Breaking down Language Barriers
Improving Communication with ESOL Learners & Addressing
Employability Issues
These materials were published in 2011, with teh aim of
supporting the delivery of an ESOL and Employability Workshop.
They focus on techniques which can be used to improve communication
when dealing with non-native English speakers, while simultaneously
identifying and meeting the employability needs of job seekers for
whom English is not a main language.
The workshop materials include activities focused on analysing
natural speaking patterns and the barriers this can pose to
learners of English. The materials are complemented by activities
aimed at improving communication with those who possess low levels
of English language skills.
Tasks will be particularly relevant for public service workers,
including employability advisors. The materials also provide an
overview of ESOL learning programmes and qualification frameworks
and link these to employability issues. This includes information
on the relationship between differing levels of ESOL and how these
affect the employability opportunities of individuals.
The training materials are intended to be delivered by ESOL
providers to employability staff, in partnership with employability
support agencies. Such a joint approach will allow ESOL providers
and employability support agencies to maximise their expertise and
provide opportunities for closer working arrangements.