Meet friends, have fun as you keep speaking English

The social programme is a weekly offering of popular activities designed to introduce you to Chester, to suggest fun activities and events for you to attend, and at the same time, make new friends easily, and complement your English language lessons.

Our social programme is a very important and much appreciated part of school life. Language and culture are closely linked so our programme of activities and excursions is designed to activate your English while you learn about British life and culture. You can visit many interesting places, share new experiences with students from all over the world, get to know your teachers outside of the classroom and have lots of fun.

Our Social Activities Organiser, a full-time member of staff, organises the social programme. When you arrive at the school in Chester on your first day, we’ll introduce you to our Social Activities Organiser, explain how activities work and what you have to do to sign up (reserve a place) on the activities, trips and excursions that you’re interested in.

The weekly social programme includes a range of activities, half-day excursions and full-day excursions at weekends. We also offer weekend excursions through a local company BusyBus.

  • activities include a walking tour of Chester on your first day, conversation club, book club, cream tea. Activities typically cost between £6 and £15.
  • half-day excursions include Anfield, Liverpool. They typically cost £15 to £30.
  • full-day excursions include the Lake District, North Wales, Manchester. Excursions cost £25 to £60.

Once you’re in school, we can also help you to plan other things you might like to do independently.

Social programme

Friday 6 December (evening) Sleeping Beauty

Sleeping Beauty at Storyhouse! A spectacular experience based on the timeless fairytale.
Meet: Main Theatre Storyhouse
Time: 18:30

£15 +

Saturday 7 December (evening) The Big Wheel

Take a ride on The Big Wheel at Cheshire Oaks and take in the view. Suggested Activity
Location: Cheshire Oaks
Time: 09:00 - 21:00

£5 +

Sunday 8 December (full day trip) North Wales Trip

As part of the North Wales sightseeing tour you will visit charming Welsh seaside towns, an ancient castle, and an amazing National Park.
Book your ticket at ELC Reception!
Meet: Chester Railway Station
Time: 09:30

£50

Monday 9 December (afternoon) Games Afternoon

Join us as we play a variety of board, card and dice games!
Meet: Common Room
Time: 16:00

Free

Tuesday 10 December (evening) The Royal Ballet: Cinderella

This enchanting ballet is a theatrical experience not to be missed.
Meet: Storyhouse Cinema
Time: 19:00

£21

Wednesday 11 December (afternoon) Arts & Crafts Club

Join our afternoon arts and crafts club. Exploring lots of projects, art, craft and creativity!
Meet: Common Room
Time: 16:00

Free

Thursday 12 December (evening) Saturnalia Parade

The Roman Deva Victrix 20th Legion will take back control of their city as Chester Roman Tours celebrates Saturnalia which was the Roman commemoration feast dedicated of the temple of the god Saturn.

Free

Friday 13 December (evening) Christmas Concert

Chester Operatic Society present their ever popular Christmas concert. Suggested Activity.
Location: St Werburgh's Church
Time: 19:30

£16

Saturday 14 December (evening) Chester Cathedral's Annual Christmas Carol Concert

Join in the Christmas celebration at Chester Cathedral Christmas concert where you will enjoy a popular selection of both traditional and popular music. Suggested Activity.
Location: Chester Cathedral
Time: 19:30 - 21:30

£10 + including a welcome glass of mulled wine and a mince pie!

Sunday 15 December (afternoon) Christmas Tree Festival

Chester Cathedral is hosting it's Christmas Tree Festival with more than 80 majestic Christmas Trees. Suggested Activity.
Location: Chester Cathedral
Time: 10:00 - 17:00

Adult £4.50 Under 18 £1

Monday 16 December (afternoon) Quiz Afternoon

Work in teams answering questions on British culture and general knowledge. Who will win a prize!
Meet: Common Room
Time: 16:00

Free

Tuesday 17 December (afternoon) Arts & Craft Club

Join our afternoon arts and crafts club. Exploring lots of projects, art, craft and creativity!
Meet: Coffee Room
Time: 16:00

Free

Wednesday 18 December (afternoon) Conversation Club

A great way to improve your communication skills, meet other students and discuss interesting topics.
Meet: Reception
Time: 16:00

Free

Thursday 19 December (evening) Gospel Soul Choir

Gospel with other soulful and uplifting genres, including Soul, Motown, and RnB.
Meet: Alexander's Live
Time: 21:00

£33

Friday 20 December (afternoon) Badminton

Play badminton stay active, have friendly competition and fun!
Meet: Reception
Time: 14:45

£4

Saturday 21 December (afternoon) Chester Christmas Makers Market

The Makers Market brings over 80 artisans to the ancient city of Chester. Suggested Location
Location: Exchange Square
Time: 10:00 - 17:00

Free

Sunday 22 December (afternoon) Santa's Enchanted Grotto

Santa Claus is coming to town! Experience Chester city centre's only enchanted grotto this Christmas. Suggested Activity
Location: Grosvenor Shopping Centre
Time: 11:00 - 13:00 / 14:00 - 16:00

Free