ELC BLOG

Preparing for a Cambridge FCE or CAE course in England

How should I prepare for my Cambridge FCE/CAE course before coming to England? A Cambridge Exam course in the UK is rewarding, satisfying, challenging, hard work and fun, all at once. If you are keen to make the most of the course and pass the exam at the end of it, you can’t start early enough! We suggest you prepare by looking at the following things before you come to England. About the structure of the exam: Have a look at the Cambridge websites to learn about the content and shape of... Read More

Testimonial from Swiss French student, Isabel

Testimonial from Swiss French student, Isabel "Prenez votre courage à deux mains et osez partir à l’étranger apprendre une autre langue. C’est un choix que vous ne regretterez pas et vous vous en souviendrez toute votre vie. Je suis partie 6 mois à Eastbourne où j’ai vécu une expérience inoubliable. C'est une petite ville calme mais à la fois formidable. Il y a plein de petits bars, des discothèques, et un magnifiqu... Read More

Top Tips for Cambridge speaking exams

Nervous about your English speaking exam? Wondering how you can get a good score? To help you, we asked our team of experienced exam teachers, many of whom are also oral examiners, for their top tips:  1. Give a positive first impression to the examiner  Smile! Have ‘open’, positive body language Speak up! Relax! Speak clearly! 2. Try to show the examiner what you know  Avoid short, uncommunicative answers Don’t just say ‘yes’ or ‘no&rsq... Read More

Test your English online!

We are pleased to announce the arrival of our new online English test. The test is a perfect way to check your level of English before you arrive at the school. The test is comprised of 50 multiple choice questions that test your understanding of English and, at the end of the test, we give you a level from Beginner to Advanced or A1 to C2 on the CEFR (Common European Framework of Reference for Languages).  Once you know your English level you can see which English courses are suitable for ... Read More

Top FCE and CAE exam tips

Top FCE and CAE exam tips Eastbourne School of English teacher, Clive, gives his top tips for students taking the FCE and CAE exam. 1. Do not go out to the pub the night before! 2. Make sure to bring a bottle of water, pens, pencils and ID with you and wear comfortable clothes. 3. Switch off your mobile phone, or do not take it with you. 4. Keep calm, take deep breaths and focus. 5. Read and listen very carefully. 6. Divide your time for each section carefully and do not spend too much time plan... Read More

So much more than an exam preparation group from Switzerland

In September 2013, a lovely group of students from Weinfelden in Switzerland came to Eastbourne School of English. They prepared for the FCE and BEC exams, they completed a video project about London and recorded their impressions on a brilliant blogspot entitled "Our Stay in Eastbourne 2013". Some highlights of the blogspot include: "So I had a good first impression about England, Eastbourne and my host family": More >> "The day started at 9 o'clock in the school. In spite of the exciting... Read More