Award in Preparing to Work in Schools
| Duration | 1 Academic Year |
| Study Mode | Part-time |
| Start Date | September 2026 |
Dual ESOL Pathway Programme
Qualification Gained: Generic award - no awarding body Vocational study not leading to a recognised qualification, Health, Public Services and Care (SSA 1)
Study LevelNo Qualification Course TypeAdult Duration6 Months Start DateNovember 2025 Study ModePart-time LocationLister BuildingOverview
The Dual ESOL Pathways Programme is a free, six-month professional development opportunity for anyone interested in teaching or supporting ESOL in Yorkshire and the Humber. Funded by Migration Yorkshire and delivered by the specialist ESOL teacher education team at Bradford College, the programme offers two distinct but connected routes:
Pathway A – Introduction to Teaching ESOL: For new or volunteer teachers who want to build core classroom skills, confidence, and an understanding of refugee and migrant learners. Participants attend input sessions, complete a short placement, and take part in a micro-teaching showcase.
Pathway B – Train the Trainer: For experienced ESOL teachers ready to step into mentoring or teacher education roles. Participants design and deliver ESOL training activities, practice observation and feedback skills, and support new teachers through reflective discussions.
Both pathways combine input sessions and placements to build confidence, professional connections, and regional capacity in ESOL teaching.
Key Info
This is a non-accredited professional development course. Assessment is therefore continuous and developmental, focusing on reflection, participation, and practical application rather than formal grading.
Participants will build an individual learning portfolio throughout the programme, which may include:
· Lesson or session plans
· Reflective journals
· Observation notes and feedback
· Evidence from teaching placements or mentoring activities
· Peer and tutor feedback
Formative feedback will be provided regularly by the course lead and, where applicable, by mentors or peers.
The course concludes with a joint showcase event, where participants share a short micro-teaching or teacher education activity and reflect on their professional learning journey.
All participants receive individual feedback and progression guidance towards their next professional step — whether into accredited teacher training (such as CertTESOL or CertEd), mentoring roles, or further study.
Pathway A
18+ with a good standard of English (written and spoken).
Functional Skills L2 or equivalent
Commitment to completing the course and placement.
No prior teaching qualification required.
Pathway B
Full teaching qualification, with an ESOL specialism
At least 2 years’ experience teaching ESOL.
Commitment to mentoring and developing others.
The Dual ESOL Pathways Programme opens up a range of professional opportunities for those working or aspiring to work in the ESOL sector.
Pathway A – Introduction to Teaching ESOL
Graduates from this route will be well prepared to progress into accredited teacher training qualifications such as the Trinity CertTESOL or Level 5 Certificate in Education (ESOL specialism). The course also provides a strong foundation for volunteering and employment in community ESOL provision, adult education, and refugee or migrant support organisations.
Pathway B – Train the Trainer
Participants from this route will be equipped to take on mentoring, teacher education, or leadership roles within their organisations or across regional ESOL networks. Graduates may go on to design and deliver ESOL teacher training sessions, support new teachers through observation and feedback, or contribute to local professional development initiatives.
Both pathways strengthen professional networks and confidence, enabling participants to play an active role in building ESOL teaching capacity across Yorkshire and the Humber.
FE Tuition: £0.00 per academic year
This is representative of the most common fees scenario, but actual fees can vary depending on a number of factors. Please contact us if you need more guidance.
If you have any questions or require any additional information, please contact [email protected]
Disclaimer: Our prospectus, college documents and website are simply here to offer a guide. We accept no liability for any inaccurate statements and are not responsible for any negative outcomes if you rely on an inaccurate statement. We reserve the right to withdraw any programmes or service at any time.
