The earlier you come to England, the better your English will get, and the more easily you will find it to join the English education system. But the following table gives you a guide.
If your first language has similarities with English, you will learn English more easily, and your course may be a little shorter. If your own language is very different from English, you will find it harder to learn good English, and your course may be a little slower.
If your English is very good, it may be good enough to start straight away in a normal English class.
| Age at start of English education. | ||
|---|---|---|
| 10 or younger | Some or good English: Go straight into a normal English class and enjoy a full English education. | No English: Have some English tuition, but spend at least half your time in a normal English class |
| 11 - 12 | Some or good English: Have some English tuition, but spend at least half your time in a normal English class | No English: One to three terms intensive English, followed by joining a normal English class fully. |
| 13 - 15 | Some English: One to three terms intensive English, followed by joining a normal English class fully. | No English: A one-year English course followed by reduced course to GCSE with additional English help. Then to A level |
| 16 or over | Some English: Two or three year combined A level or foundation course with intensive English. | No English: A one- or two-year intensive English course combined with a two- or three- year A level course. |