Wimbledon School of English, London
THE DESTINATION | THE SCHOOL | MAP | RACHEL’S TAKE | WHY THIS SCHOOL? | FACILITIES | THE COURSES | FROM OUR CLIENTS | HOUSING | SOCIAL LIFE | INSURANCE AND PRICING | REQUEST AN ESTIMATE | OTHER PROGRAMS | SIMILAR PROGRAMS
THE top-ranked English language school in all of the UK, the Wimbledon School of English is located in one of the safest and most beautiful areas in London. The school is connected to center of the city with excellent transportation links, and all the main tourist attractions are only minutes away. Wimbledon offers all of the advantages of the capital of England, but at a more relaxed pace.
London is the political, economic and cultural capital of Britain, with 33 boroughs bursting with world-class attractions for visitors of all ages. There are 30 historic gardens, 123 historic buildings, more than 200 museums, 600 cinema screens and 108 music halls. The river Thames runs through the heart of London, from Richmond in the west, through the central London borough of Westminster, to Greenwich in the east. About one third of London is devoted to parks and open spaces, so there are plenty of places to relax on fine days. The history of London goes back to over thousands of years, and The city boasts four World Heritage Sites: the Palace of Westminster and Westminster Abbey, the Tower of London, Maritime Greenwich and the Royal Botanic and Kew Gardens.
Wimbledon, where the school is located, is one of London’s loveliest and wealthiest areas, with everything a student needs on the doorstep and Central London only 20 minutes away. There is plenty to do in Wimbledon – fashionable shops in the Court Shopping Center, one of London’s largest cinemas, two theaters, sports and fitness clubs, a swimming pool, several nightclubs and over 200 cafes, bars, pubs and restaurants – all only a few minutes from the school.
The area is also the home of Wimbledon Village, one of London’s traditional villages. The Village dates from the 11th century and is only a 10-minute walk from the school. It is filled with designer shops and upscale restaurants, traditional country pubs and typical English houses and cottages. Next to the Village is Wimbledon Common, a large natural area of grassland, woods and lakes, perfect for horse riding, jogging, walking with friends or playing a round of golf. And of course, Wimbledon is very lucky to be the home of the famous All England Lawn Tennis Club, which brings the top names in tennis to the area every summer.
WIMBLEDON SCHOOL OF ENGLISH AT A GLANCE
- Year of foundation: 1964
- City: Wimbledon, London
- School’s position in the city: Suburbs, 20 minutes from Central London
- Minimum age in adult school: 15
- Number of students in school: average 225, maximum 300
- Main type of public transport: Buses (24 hour service), underground and trains to and from Central London
- Approximate number of nationalities in school each year: 86
Wimbledon School of English Adult School: 41 Worple Rd, Wimbledon, London SW19 4JZ, United Kingdom
“Nevermind the slick brochures and sales pitches of other schools. The EL Gazette and British Council have said it all about this one—it is the top-ranked English language school in all of the United Kingdom. I’ll explain a bit how this ranking works: every four years, the British Council carries out an inspection of its 500 + member schools in the UK (nearly all reputable language schools in the UK are accredited by the British Council). During the inspection, in which two examiners inspect the school for days, they grade a school in 13 areas like teaching, care of students, accommodation, etc., and in 15 areas if the school also has programs for young learners. For each area, a school can receive a grade of “acceptable,” or it can exceed the expectations of the examiner. When the latter is the case, the school receives what’s called a “strength” in that area. As a result of these inspections, language schools typically receive about 3.5 strengths. On its last inspection in 2016, the Wimbledon School of English again received 15 out of a possible 15!
As a location, for many years I was under the impression that Wimbledon was a separate town in England, too far to be considered London. It’s actually only in zone 3, and is connected rapidly by train to the center of the city. I visited it not long ago, and from the staff welcome to its very organized visiting procedures and the facilities of the school, it was easy to see just with those why it’s ranked so highly. The Wimbledon area itself is beautiful, with all the conveniences of a good neighborhood (minus the expensive international chains of everything found in the center of London), and is a place to see many original Londoners and their families. When a student books a school in the center of the city with host family accommodation (as I always recommend for learning the language), most likely he or she will be traveling 45 minutes to an hour to get to school. This school has most of the families close to the school, and a good selection of student houses for those who want to be a bit more independent. When a student does an intensive English course, much of the day will be spent in class or doing homework, so in turn for much of the week the student will be staying in the local area, and being close to the accommodation is important for that. However, for the weekends and some evenings, all of the attractions of London are still under half an hour away. In that sense, the school offers the best of both worlds—and at a reasonable price for the London market.”
Wimbledon School of English
Why Study English at the Wimbledon School?
There are countless English language schools in London, which is one of world’s top cities for English language learning. Wimbledon School of English distinguishes itself in the following ways:
- Wimbledon School of English received 15/15 strengths in a British Council inspection. Only one other school in the UK has had this merit (but after the Wimbledon School), meaning that this school was the first ever school to be ranked number one in all of the United Kingdom, and it is still tied for the top spot.
- Established in 1964 by Marjorie Housden, Wimbledon School of English is one of the oldest English language schools in the UK.
- The staff has an international reputation for their professionalism, friendliness and the attention they give to each and every student. Many of the teachers have been with the school for years and are IELTS examiners.
- Wimbledon School of English has a fantastic nationality mix, with students from over 86 different countries every year.
- The school is connected to the city center with excellent transportation links (17 minutes).
- The school offers a free WSE Mobile e-learning application.
- The courses are competitively priced for the London market and offer good value for money.
- In a city with a lot of language schools offering host family accommodation, the school is able to offer excellent homestays and its own student residences.
- Wimbledon School of English is a member of both IALC and Eaquals, two certifications that are more difficult to attain than the others for language schools around the world.
- For IELTS and Cambridge exam takers, the school is an official testing center, meaning that these tests can be taken on site.
The facilities
WIMBLEDON SCHOOL OF ENGLISH FACILITIES AT A GLANCE
- 26 classrooms with interactive white boards
- Free Wi-Fi
- Comfortable common room with widescreen TV
- Fully-equipped multimedia self-access study center and library with 16 computers
- Large book and film collection
- Snack bar
- Table tennis
- Large, beautiful garden
MORE ABOUT THE FACILITIES AND SERVICES
WSE English Mobile Application
All students will have free access to the WSE mobile application, the school’s fantastic FREE e-Learning platform. The WSE application allows people to improve their English language skills on the go—even if they’re not connected to the internet. The application can be translated into 10 different languages. It has plenty of interactive activities and games, and new lessons can be unlocked every week.
Needs Analysis
During the student’s course their needs and interests are taken into consideration in careful planning, attention and monitoring from the teachers. On day one, each student completes a written needs analysis form as part of their language level test. Teachers use this to help plan their course.
Study Center
The study center offers the most up-to-date technology and materials for students to use at any time. The study center has a computer room with a total of 16 computers connected to the internet and free WIFI for students’ own devices. A teacher is available every afternoon for advice or help on additional study. The school also has a dedicated self-access study library with a large collection of graded-readers, CDs, films, readings, references, and past exam papers.
Tutorials
Each student has regular tutorials with their teacher to discuss their study plans and goals and also to discuss their overall learning experience and welfare while at WSE. Tutorials are recorded on e-wimbledon to allow future teachers to monitor ongoing individual student progress.
Student Welfare
WSE has a Student Welfare Officer available to support students in a professional and confidential manner with any problems that might arise while they are away from home.
The courses
GENERAL ENGLISH AND EXAMINATION COURSES
Beginner English, General English and Intensive English courses
The Beginner, General English and Intensive English Language Courses are the most popular options and they will help students improve in all areas of the English Language: grammar, vocabulary, speaking, listening, pronunciation, reading and writing. Students on the intensive course can choose from the afternoon options classes of Communication Skills, Grammar and Writing, IELTS preparation, English for Film Making and Social Media, and many more.
- Minimum age: 16 years
- English levels: Beginner, or A2 to C2 (General and Intensive English)
- Course length: 1 to 10 weeks
- Number of lessons per week: 24 lessons (20 hours) Beginners and General English, or 28 lessons (23 hours and 20 minutes) Intensive English
- Timetable: 9:15 – 12:55 Monday to Friday, 13:55- 15:45 Monday and Wednesday, also 13:55-15:45 Tuesday and Thursday (Intensive English course)
- Start dates: Most Mondays (General and Intensive English) see start dates for Beginner English
- Class size: maximum 14
Academic IELTS Express
This is a dynamic, fast-paced course intended to prepare student for the IELTS examination quickly.
- Minimum age: 16 years
- English levels: B2 to C2
- Course length: 4 weeks
- Number of lessons per week: 24 lessons (20 hours)
- Timetable: 9:15 – 12:55 Monday to Friday, 13:55- 15:45 Monday and Wednesday or Tuesday and Thursday
- Start dates: see dates and fees
- Class size: maximum 14
IELTS Preparation with Pre-sessional Academic English, 10 week and Express
This IELTS Preparation Course is perfect for students who wish to be fully prepared for the IELTS Academic examinations. It also gives fantastic guidance on academic study techniques for use at an English speaking university, meaning that the students can totally prepare themselves for studying in an English university.
- Minimum age: 16 years
- English levels: B1 (10 week course), B2 (Express)
- Course length: 10 weeks, or 4 or 6 weeks (Express)
- Number of lessons per week: 24 lessons (20 hours)
- Timetable: 9:15 – 12:55 Monday to Friday, 13:55- 15:45 Monday and Wednesday or Tuesday and Thursday
- Start dates: see dates and fees
- Class size: maximum 14
Cambridge First and First Intensive Exam Preparation courses
This course is intended for candidates who are preparing for the FCE exam.
- Minimum age: 16 years
- English levels: Minimum B2
- Course length: 7 – 13 weeks or 4 weeks (Intensive)
- Number of lessons per week: 24 lessons (20 hours) or 28 lessons (23 hours and 20 minutes)
- Timetable: 9:15 – 12:55 Monday to Friday, 13:55- 15:45 Monday and Wednesday or 13:55- 15:45 Tuesday and Thursday (Intensive)
- Start dates: see dates and fees
- Class size: Maximum 14
Cambridge Advanced, Advanced Intensive and Proficiency Exam Preparation courses
This course is intended for candidates who are preparing for the Cambridge Certificate in Advanced English or the Cambridge Proficiency in English exams.
- Minimum age: 16 years
- English levels: C1 (Advanced), C2 (Proficiency)
- Course length: 10 to 13 weeks (Advanced and Proficiency), or 4 weeks ( Advanced Intensive)
- Number of lessons per week: 24 lessons (20 hours) or 28 lessons (23 hours and 20 minutes) Advanced Intensive Course
- Timetable: 9:15 – 12:55 Monday to Friday, 13:55- 15:45 Monday and Wednesday or 13:55- 15:45 Tuesday and Thursday (Advanced Intensive)
- Start dates: see dates and fees
- Class size: Maximum 14
ENGLISH FOR PROFESSIONALS
Business English
The Business and Professional English course is designed for people who are either currently working in the business sector or planning to do so in the future. A range of language associated with a variety of business topics such as company structure, sales, marketing, finance and banking, management, public relations, human resources, international trade, quality and business ethics, and many more are studied. The course focuses primarily on the following areas:
- Meetings and negotiations
- Socializing and travel
- Oral and written presentations
- Analyzing figures and describing trends
- Sales/ Marketing/ Advertising
- Understanding cultural differences
- Oral and written communication – telephone, faxes, e-mails, etc.
All students have regular tutorials with their teacher to discuss progress and future study. Up to 2 hours self-study will be set per night.
- Minimum age: 20 years
- English levels: B2 to C1
- Course length: 2 to 12 weeks
- Number of lessons per week: 24 lessons (20 hours)
- Timetable: 9:15 – 12:55 Monday to Friday, 13:55- 15:45 Monday and Wednesday or Tuesday and Thursday
- Start dates: see dates and fees
- Class size: Maximum 14
Legal English
This course is designed for students who want to develop their English language skills within a legal context, and prepare for the Test of Legal English Skills (TOLES). The Legal English course covers fifteen areas of law, and includes the study of real court trials in order to enhance the learning experience of the students. The areas of focus on the course are commercial law, contracts, litigation process, property, employment, bankruptcy and insolvency. Preparation for the TOLES exam is optional and takes place in the fourth and final week of the course. The course includes a free visit to the iconic Royal Courts of Justice in central London.
Medical English
For those working or who want to work in a medical field, it is important to be highly accurate and clear in their communication, but they also need to be able to show tact and sensitivity. During the course, students will develop these English language skills in a variety of contexts, and will analyze real case scenarios and learn specialized terminology. Guidance for OET (Occupational English Test), combined with a study plan, can be included for those planning to sit the test. The course includes a free visit to one of London’s excellent hospital museums.
- Minimum age: 20 years
- English levels: B2 to C2
- Course length: 1 to 4 weeks (Legal English) or 2 weeks (Medical English)
- Number of lessons per week: 28 lessons (23 hours and 20 minutes)
- Timetable: 9:15 – 12:55 Monday to Friday, 13:55- 15:45 Monday and Wednesday or Tuesday and Thursday
- Start dates: see dates and fees
- Class size: 14 (Legal English), 12 (Medical English)
OET Preparation Course
If you are a qualified doctor, nurse or midwife and are looking to work in the UK, Australia or New Zealand, the OET is the most appropriate course for you. The OET is an exam that assesses the language skills of healthcare professionals that would like to register and practise in an English speaking environment. During the course you will study a wide range of medical language, with a specific focus on ways of communicating effectively with patients and their relatives.
- Minimum age: 20 years
- English levels: B2 to C2
- Course length: 2 weeks
- Number of lessons per week: 28 lessons (23 hours and 20 minutes)
- Start dates: see dates and fees
- Class size: Maximum 14
Language Holiday: Experience London (40+)
This course is designed for mature learners who wish to combine studying English with spending time exploring the city of London and British culture. Lessons take place in the morning, with excursions on Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday afternoons, and one full day excursion on Saturday.
- Minimum age: 40 years
- English levels: B1 to B2
- Course length: 1 – 2 weeks
- Number of lessons per week: 25 hours (25 classroom lessons + 10 London lessons)
- Timetable: 9:15 – 12:55 Monday to Friday
- Start dates: see dates and fees
- Class size: Maximum 10
30+ English Language course
You will develop all your language skills in a challenging environment, while exploring a wide range of topics around current affairs. This course will improve your understanding of how to use English in everyday situations and you will have networking opportunities with international students. The study group is no larger than eight students, to guarantee a more individual learning experience.
- Minimum age: 30 years
- English levels: B1 to B2
- Course length: 2 weeks
- Number of lessons per week: 24
- Start dates: see dates and fees
- Class size: Maximum 8
Family Holiday course
Parents join our General English programmes and children study in separate classes every morning from 09:15 – 12:55. Whilst parents study two afternoons each week, their child/children will take part in fun activities, such as visiting the zoo and/or The London Aquarium, exploring Hampton Court Palace and the Magic Garden, bowling and crazy golf. An optional excursion is available for £50 extra per individual and this course is available from mid-June to mid-August.
- Minimum age children: 6 years
- English levels: from A2
- Course length: 1 – 9 weeks
- Number of lessons per week: 20 lessons (Children)/ 24 lessons (Parents)
- Timetable: 9:15 – 12:55 Monday to Friday, and 13:55- 15:45 Monday and Wednesday or Tuesday and Thursday
- Start dates: see dates and fees
- Class size: Maximum 16
ENGLISH LANGUAGE COURSES FOR TEACHERS
Cambridge Teaching Knowledge Test
This Teachers’ English language course prepares teachers for the Cambridge Teaching Knowledge Test – the new test from the University of Cambridge designed especially for teachers of English to speakers of other languages. The course covers a variety of concepts related to language, language use and the background to and practice of language learning and teaching. It is divided into three modules:
- Module one: Language and background to teaching and learning
- Module two: Lesson planning and resources for the language teacher
- Module three: Managing the teaching and learning process
Students can choose to take a written examination, the Cambridge TKT, at the end of the course.
Teaching with Technology
During this course, participants will study the latest in theory and methodology of teaching English with technology. This will be combined with practical elements in order to build confidence in using a variety of technological aids in the classroom.
Teacher’s Refresher and Teacher’s Refresher Plus
This course is for overseas teachers who want to enhance their English proficiency, study recent developments in teaching methodology, and learn about British culture. This course is aimed at non-native speakers who have experience of teaching English and hold a teaching qualification from their own country.
- Minimum age: 20 years
- English levels: B1 (Teaching Knowledge Test), B2 to C2 (Teaching with Technology), C1 to C2 (Teacher’s Refresher/Plus)
- Course length: 2 weeks (Teaching Knowledge Test) or 1 week (Teaching with Technology)
- Number of lessons per week: 24 lessons (20 hours) (Teaching Knowledge Test, Teaching with Technology, Teacher’s Refresher) or 28 lessons (23 hours and 20 minutes) (Teacher’s Refresher Plus)
- Timetable: 9:15 – 12:55 Monday to Friday and 13:55- 15:45 Monday and Wednesday or Tuesday and Thursday
- Start dates: see dates and fees
- Class size: Maximum 14
English as a Medium of Instruction
This course is designed for both qualified experienced teachers as well as newly qualified teachers who wish to develop their skills and understanding of using technology meaningfully in the classroom. During the course, you will combine the latest theory and methodology of teaching English with technology, with practical elements to build your confidence in using these in the classroom. You will be given the opportunity to blog your experience for self reflection and try out popular sites and tools.
- Minimum age: 20 years
- English levels: B2
- Course length: 1 week
- Number of lessons per week: 24 lessons (20 hours)
- Start dates: see dates and fees
- Class size: Maximum 14
More information about the Wimbledon School of English Courses
Many more details about the courses offered at the Wimbledon School of English can be found in its course guide, available here.
HOST FAMILY
One of the best ways to learn more about the people of Britain is to choose homestay accommodation. All homestays are carefully selected and visited regularly to ensure consistently high standards. Homestays are in fact the accommodation of choice for the majority of students. The school and Marshall Language Services recommend this form of accommodation the most for language learning. Family life is informal and the people are welcoming, friendly and talkative, so students will have plenty of opportunities to practice their English with native speakers. By booking homestay accommodation, students will also not have to worry about shopping for food and preparing meals every day. Mealtimes are often the occasions in which families converse most with the students.
Additional homestay provisions and information:
- Meal plan: Half Board (Breakfast and one main meal).
- All homestays offer wireless internet.
- Homestay families provide all bed linens and towels. The school advises students to bring one extra towel.
- 40% of all homestays are located within walking distance from the school.
- Wimbledon offers 4 different types of homestay all with single or twin rooms upon request.
An Independent Homestay offers good accommodation with a shared bathroom, and use of a full kitchen but no meals.
A Standard Homestay offers good, clean accommodation with a shared bathroom.
A Standard Plus Homestay offers a good, clean accommodation with a private bathroom.
A Superior Homestay offers executive-standard rooms with a bathroom for private use. It is guaranteed less than 25 minutes walking distance to school.
- Accommodation is from Saturday to Saturday. It is possible to book extra nights at an additional cost.
- Adults aged 18+ do not have curfews.
- Students aged 15 – 17 have curfews at 10:00 pm from Sunday – Thursday, 11:00 pm on Friday and Saturday.
STUDENT RESIDENCES
The Wimbledon School of English offers a variety of student residences, all within walking distance to the school. Bookings are from Saturday to Saturday and before 8 pm only. The minimum age for booking is 18.
Kings Lodge, Queens Lodge,
Kings Lodge and Queens Lodge are the school’s luxury residences and are located just a 10-minute walk from school. The residences offer a total of 14 en-suite single, double, or twin rooms.
Kings Lodge, Queens Lodge, each offer:
- A fully-furnished room with study space
- Bed linen, but not towels
- A shared, well-equipped kitchen and common room with TV and DVD player
- A large garden
- Super fast Wi-Fi
- Weekly room cleaning service
- Laundry facilities
Haynt Walk
Haynt Walk student houses are located in South West Wimbledon, 10 minutes from the school by bus or 30-40 minutes on foot. They consist of a total of 17 standard or en-suite bedrooms.
Haynt Walk offers:
- A fully-furnished room with study space
- Fully equipped kitchen
- Large garden and patio
- 2 shower rooms
- A shared, common room area with TV and DVD player
- Free Wi-Fi
- Laundry facilities
- Weekly room cleaning
Cottenham 1 and Cottenham 2
Cottenham 1&2 are located in Raynes Park, approximately 30 minutes walk from Wimbledon School of English, or a 20-minute bus journey from Wimbledon Town Centre and the school. Cottenham 1 consist of 1 single en-suite bedroom and 5 spacious single bedrooms with shared shower-room & facilities. Cottenham 2 consist of 3 large en-suite bedrooms and 3 large bedrooms with shared shower-room & facilities.
Cottenham 1 and Cottenham 2, each offer:
- Large, well-equipped kitchen and dining areas with all facilities including cooker, microwave, dishwasher, fridge/freezer
- Kitchen equipment (cutlery, plates, saucepans, etc)
- Sunny outside garden
- Wifi throughout the building.
- Bed linen
- Laundry facilities (washing machine and iron)
- TV in each room
- Communal areas are cleaned weekly, study-bedroom and bath/shower rooms are cleaned weekly
- Towels are NOT included.
- Every room includes a bed, secure safe, chair, desk and storage cupboard.
Catholic Hostel
Single and twin rooms are also available at a Catholic hostel for women only aged 18-30. The room prices are very reasonable, but the hostel has a strict curfew of 11 pm during the week and 12 pm on weekends. Contact if you are interested in this accommodation.
HOTEL AND APARTMENTS
The school’s accommodation team has information on a variety of very nice hotels, guesthouses and self-catering flats in Wimbledon, and will be happy to help students book them on their own.
Insurance
Insurance covering medical and travel assistance, personal liability and trip cancellation is not included in the price of the program. Marshall Language Services has a policy available through Guard.Me that covers these elements, as well as an additional policy through CareMed that covers cancellation under a wider range of circumstances, including the need to repeat school exams. A summary of these policies may be downloaded below.
Dates and Fees
Calculate your own approximate quote
The following tool will help you to get a good idea of the cost of a language course and accommodation, if requested, at this school. It may not include all the courses and accommodation options available or take into account promotional offers or costs associated with student visas, insurance, study materials or exam fees. For these reasons, the availability of any course, accommodation option (especially in the high season) and the final price of a package will always have to be verified with Marshall Language Services prior to enrolment.
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