Free Level 1 ESOL Skills for Life (speaking and listening) Course in Widnes. Evening classes run at Riverside College Kingsway Campus, so you can fit study around work or other commitments. You'll have an initial assessment after you apply to confirm this is the right level for you. The course focuses on spoken English and listening skills at Level 1. It typically takes 5 months part-time. A level 1 esol skills for life (speaking and listening) qualification helps in workplaces, community settings, and everyday situations where clear spoken English matters.
Who this course is for
Aimed at 19+ learners
Entry requirements
Initial assessment after application
What you will learn
You'll speak clearly and confidently in everyday conversations and discussions.
You'll listen and respond to spoken information accurately.
You'll follow and give instructions in practical situations.
You'll take part in formal and informal spoken exchanges.
You'll understand the main points from what you hear.
You'll use appropriate language for different situations and audiences.
How you will learn
Classes are classroom based and run in the evening at Riverside College Kingsway Campus. You'll learn through speaking and listening activities, group discussions, and tutor-led practice. Assessment is through observed spoken tasks and listening activities. There is no written exam for this qualification. Your tutor will assess your performance during the course.
What you will need to bring
The centre will provide most materials. Riverside College Kingsway Campus will confirm anything else you need before you start.
Where next
Jobs you could do
Customer service assistant: clear spoken English is essential in customer-facing roles.
Care assistant: communication skills are central to working with clients and colleagues.
Receptionist: speaking and listening confidently at a front desk.
Retail assistant: handling customer queries and instructions on the shop floor.
Warehouse operative: following spoken instructions accurately in a busy environment.
Teaching assistant: supporting classroom communication alongside qualified teachers.
What you could study next
After completing your Level 1 ESOL Skills for Life (speaking and listening) qualification, you could move on to:
Level 2 Award in ESOL Skills for Life (speaking and listening): the next step up, recognised by many employers as a strong indicator of spoken English ability.
Level 1 or Level 2 Functional Skills English: adds reading and writing alongside speaking and listening, giving you a fuller English qualification.
Level 1 ESOL Skills for Life (reading) or (writing): broaden your English skills across all four areas.
