Liverpool International Language Academy (LILA)
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Located in Liverpool, a vibrant, iconic and cultural destination, LILA offers students excellent programs and activities for students to improve their English while exploring one of the friendliest cities in the UK. Whether it be listening to music at the legendary Cavern Club, where the Beatles got their start, watching a Premier League football match, or visiting the many museums and cultural attractions, Liverpool has everything to offer for an experience of a lifetime.
Liverpool is a historic maritime city in northwest England, where the River Mersey meets the Irish Sea. A key trade and immigration port from the 18th to the early 20th centuries, it is now a modern, vibrant city that is proud of its rich heritage and world trade roots. It is also famous for its friendly people, and known worldwide for its football team and of course, the Beatles. Only by visiting can you fully appreciate how much this wonderful city has to offer. For a compact city, Liverpool offers an impressive collection of attractions—the waterfront boasts a fascinating mix of the historic and modern, while the city itself features everything from historic quarters to modern shopping and entertainment areas. With plenty of open space, Liverpool is a joy to wander—you will find pleasant surprises around many corners.
LILA AT A GLANCE
- Year of foundation: 2004
- City: Liverpool
- Position in the city: heart of the city center
- Minimum age in adult school: 16
- Number of students in school: Average 110, Maximum 480
- Main type of public transport: buses and trains
- Approximate number of nationalities in school each year: 38
LILA: New Barratt House, 47 N John St, Liverpool L2 6SG, United Kingdom
“I met Leanne Linacre, the owner of the school, in 2012 and had the pleasure of visiting Liverpool in 2016 after a gradually increasing demand from my clients for language schools there. When I arrived, I found possibly the biggest destination surprise of my career. I had remembered background images of Liverpool in old Beatles documentaries as looking gritty, industrial, and frankly, not so nice, and with the central dock in use until the early 1970s, those views may have been accurate at the time. However, when I looked around the center and the Albert Dock, I found a city that was bright, airy, clean and cheerful. There is some beautiful architecture, a notably low skyline for a city its size (urban planning codes don’t allow for buildings over a certain height) and not surprisingly, music in the air. There are street musicians at every turn, and in the short time I was there, I saw not one, but two Cavern Clubs, the “real” one near the LILA school, and the one recreated as it was in the early 1960s in the wonderful Beatles Story museum (worth the whole trip to the city—many of the pictures in the destination image gallery of that place and others are mine.) Visitors will also be struck by how friendly the locals are—they are descended from the Irish, with a not dissimilar accent, and Leanne and the school’s staff are no exception to this. A visit to LILA is a pleasure of its own, with its chic and colorful design, the Beatles everywhere in there as well, and the quality of teaching and service to match. Liverpool is also a fantastic destination for language students for the fact that it is relatively small and compact (but with plenty to do), there are modern and stylish residences and apartments in walking distance of the center, host families that can be reached in 20 minutes or so, at least one nearby university, and it’s all so inexpensive. As a city with relatively few language schools for its size, international students will have the ability to stay in good quality homestays and easily make local friends. Recommending this school and city to anyone is always a delight for me!”
LILA Liverpool
Why Study at this School?
There are many, many English language schools in the UK, which is one of the Europe’s top destinations for English language learning. LILA distinguishes itself in the following ways:
- LILA is located in the heart of Liverpool, which has been voted one of the friendliest cities in the UK.
- Founded in 2004, LILA is a modern language school in a contemporary environment with up to date teaching technologies.
- The school offers a variety of courses for every type of students, and also provides a variety of social activities to ensure the complete language learning experience.
- LILA offers fully qualified and experienced staff and teachers, and make sure they give attention to each and every student.
- LILA is the only school in the city to be a member of the prestigious IALC, an accreditation that is more difficult to attain than many of the others.
- LILA was shortlisted four times for Study Travel Magazine’s “Best English Language School in Europe” award, which is nominated and voted on by language travel agencies around the world.
- From the first day, LILA gives careful attention to each student, and provides the Monday Mingle which helps new students settle in.
- LILA has a good nationality mix, with students from over different countries every year.
- The courses are competitively priced for the UK market and offer good value for money
- As a study destination with relatively few language schools for the size of the city, LILA does not have to compete for host families, and is therefore able to offer excellent homestays.
- LILA offers students the possibility to take the First Certificate in English (FCE) and Cambridge Advanced English (CAE) exams at the school.
The facilities
LILA’S FACILITIES AT A GLANCE
- Central location with all amenities nearby
- 18 Classrooms with interactive boards
- Student computer room
- Free Wi-Fi
- Inspirational and vibrant common room with TV
- Hot drinks and snack facilities
- Book swap and lending library
- Quiet study area
MORE ABOUT THE FACILITIES AND SERVICES
Location
LILA Liverpool is next to the fabulous Liverpool One shopping complex and a short bus journey from Premier League football teams, Liverpool FC and Everton FC. LILA is just around the corner from the legendary Cavern Club, where the Beatles got their start. LILA provides students with social night outs to the Cavern Club and the opportunity to experience Liverpool’s famous nightlife.
Online Learning
LILA offers online learning courses for students who are unable to regularly attend courses. The online learning program provides the same regular courses and the timing is flexible. Online Learning students are offered the same experience and support from staff as those offered on regular courses.
Academic Support and Tutorials
LILA provides twice-a-week student “drop in” sessions for Academic Support or Job Skills, and regular tutorials with students to help them assess their progress.
Student Welfare
LILA’s Welfare Officer is available during office hours 8.30am – 4.30pm to offer support or to chat.
The courses
GENERAL ENGLISH AND EXAMINATION COURSES
- Minimum age – 16 years
- Course duration: 1 – 20+ weeks
- Start dates: Most Mondays
- Number of students in class: average 8, maximum 15
General English, Plus 6, and General English Plus
General English is taught in weekly modules focusing on the skills of speaking, listening, reading, and writing while covering essential grammar, vocabulary, pronunciation, and common English phrases. Plus 6 is a part time course which focuses on the use of reading, writing, speaking, and listening in a communicative way. General English can also be combined with Plus 6, IELTS preparation, University Preparation, or Business English to create an intensive program.
- English levels: All
- Number of hours per week: 15 hours (General English), 6 (Plus 6) or 21 (General English Plus)
- Timetable: 9:00 – 12:15 or 14:45 – 18:00 Monday to Friday (General English), + 13:00 – 14:30 (General English Plus) or Monday to Thursday 13:00 – 14:30 Monday to Thursday (Plus 6 only)
IELTS Exam Preparation Course (Part-Time)
LILA’s IELTS course focuses on academic reading and writing while also perfecting students’ speaking and listening skills. It can be combined with the General English course to form an intensive program.
- English levels: Minimum B1
- Number of hours per week: 6 hours (1.5 hours per day)
- Timetable: 13:00 – 14:30 Monday to Thursday
Cambridge First Certificate in English (FCE) or Cambridge Advanced English (CAE) Preparation
LILA’s Cambridge Exam Preparation courses are intended to develop the necessary language skills required to pass the exam. Students may choose to take Plus 6 afternoon courses in conjunction with their exam preparation course.
- English levels: B2 (FCE), C1 (CAE)
- Number of hours per week: 15 hours
- Timetable: 9:00 – 12:15 Monday to Friday
Individual English Course
- English levels: All
- Number of hours per week: Flexible
- Timetable: Arranged according to students availability
Evening courses
Evening classes are ideal for students who want to learn English without committing to a full-time course.
- English levels: Minimum B1
- Number of hours per week: 4 hours
- Timetable: 18:00 – 20:00 Tuesday and Thursday
- Start date: Any Tuesday
English and Football
The English and Football programme gives students the opportunity to study english and improve their football skills on and off the pitch.
Liverpool is a popular destination amongst football fans in boasting two Premier League teams and having a rich football history. Our programme provides full time study focusing on improving all areas of English language, in addition to football coaching with a highly successful football college based in Liverpool. During the football training, students will have support through innovative coaching from highly experienced staff including ex-professional players and managers. The programme offers students personalised training as well as monitoring their fitness and player development. The coaching focuses on improving individual technique as well as the importance of team work. The students also have the opportunity to play in regular competitive league and cup games.
- Minimum age: 18 or 16/17 with parental consent
- Number of hours per week: General English: 15 hours; Football: 10 hours
- Timetable: Morning or afternoon classes available depending on the time of year
- Available for all levels
- Course length: Minimum 1 weeks
- Opportunity to visit Premier League and Football League matches
- Opportunity to play in games
- Football kit provided at an additional cost
- Nutritional advice
General English Plus Internship
This is an excellent opportunity for students to improve their English, enhance employment opportunities and experience the lifestyle and culture of a new country. LILA works with carefully selected companies and organizations in Liverpool in order to give students the best experience possible. The program includes General English tuition and orientation at LILA, work placement in a local company or organization and accommodation.
- English levels: B2 and C1
- Number of hours per week: 15 (7 hours per day)
- Timetable: 09:00 – 12:15 Monday to Friday (General English)
- Start date: Any Monday
- Course length: 3 weeks minimum General English + 4-16 week internship
Evening Classes
- Number of days per week: 4 days: Monday – Thursday
- Number of hours per week: 1 – 4 hours
ENGLISH FOR PROFESSIONALS
- Minimum age – 16 years
- Course duration: 2 – 12 weeks
- Start dates: see dates and fees
- Number of students in class: average 8, maximum 15
Business English
Business English focuses on business skills and situations such as giving presentations, writing reports and emails, taking part in meetings, and making conversation. Lessons will include a focus on business vocabulary and English grammar as well as reading, writing, listening, and speaking. This course can be combined with the General English course to form an intensive study program.
- English levels: Minimum B2
- Number of hours per week: 7.5 hours
- Timetable: 13:00 – 14:30 Monday to Friday
English for Special Purposes – in country
Students can choose from a range of courses which meets the needs of their organization and LILA can come to them. LILA will teach the course in-country for a bespoke package price on request. The customized LILA course will improve English language fluency and help students to communicate better in their chosen industry.
- English for Aviation
- English for Oil and Gas Industries
- English for Banking and Finance
- English for Business
The package includes all tuition, bed and breakfast in a world-class, well-located hotel. The course will take place during a weekend.
- English levels: B2 and C1
- Number of hours per week: 21 hours (7 hours per day)
- Timetable: 09:00 – 17:00 Friday to Sunday
- Start date: Thursdays
- Course length: 4 days
TEACHER TRAINING COURSES
Cambridge CELTA
This course provides fluent speakers of English with high quality training in teaching English as a foreign language and is taken by over 10,000 candidates each year. The course includes tutorial support, supervised lesson planning, peer observation, feedback sessions, submission of a portfolio of work and much more.
- Minimum age: 18
- Number of hours per week: 30 contact hours + some evening and weekend work (5-7 hours per day)
- Timetable: 9:00 – 18:00 Monday to Friday
- Start date: see dates and fees
- Course length: 4 weeks
- Course size: Average 10, Maximum 18
Teaching Methodology
The English Teaching Methodology course is designed for non-native teachers of English who want to improve or refresh their skills. The course covers a broad range of EFL topics and the most recent developments in English language teaching. Topics typically include: Methods and Approaches, Motivation, Functions and Meaning, Materials, Reading, Writing, Speaking and Listening, Teaching Roles, Grammar, Lexis, Checking, Understanding, Phonology, Computers in EFL, Teaching Beginners, Learner Strategies, Personal Development. English Teaching Methodology is available to Groups only. A teaching qualification is required to enroll on this course.
- Minimum age: 18
- Number of hours per week: 15 hours
- Timetable: Morning or afternoon classes available depending on the time of year
- Start date: Most Mondays
- Course length: Minimum 2 weeks
- Course size: Maximum 15
HOST FAMILY
One of the best ways to learn more about the people of Liverpool 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 dinner every day) or Full Board (3 meals per day).
- Homestay families provide all bed linens and towels. The school advises students to bring one extra towel.
- Most homestays are located within 20 – 45 minutes from the school by public transportation.
- Accommodation is from Sunday to Saturday or Sunday to Sunday. It is possible to book extra nights at an additional cost.
- Students aged 16 – 17 have a curfew of 23:00.
- Students older than 18 years of age do not have curfews.
STUDENT RESIDENCES
University Residence
University Residence is LILA’s own high standard, modern accommodation with en-suite facilities. University Residence is located within walking distance of LILA Liverpool. The residence is available year round to students aged 18 and over. Supervised university residence is available in Liverpool to students ages 16+ during the summer period only.
University Residence also offers:
- Single en-suite bedrooms
- Fully equipped kitchen
- Communal areas
- TV
- Bed linen and towel are provided
- Free Wi-Fi
- Communal kitchens are cleaned regularly
- Laundry facilities
- 24 hour reception
- Arrival Sunday, departure Saturday (extra nights available upon request)
Shared Student Accommodation
Shared Student Accommodation is for students who want to share with a varied mix of students, some of whom also attend LILA, and expand their social circle while in the UK. Shared Student Accommodation options range from medium-sized shared houses to rooms within larger accommodation buildings, which are all furnished and decorated to the highest standards. All of the shared accommodation options are located in popular student areas with access to local amenities (shops, bars, etc.) and good transport links. Some of this accommodation in Liverpool is within walking distance of the school. The minimum age to book shared student accommodation is 18 years old.
All Shared Student Accommodation is self-catered and includes:
- Fully furnished rooms
- Shared kitchen/bathroom facilities
- Kitchen utensils
- Modern common area with TV
- Onsite check in
- Wi-Fi or internet
- Bedding
- Laundry facilities
- Some properties have Sky/digital television, an IT suite and car parking available
- Arrival Sunday, departure Saturday (extra nights available upon request)
APARTMENTS
Studio Apartments
LILA offers self-contained studio apartments for one or two students who would prefer to live independently in the city center of Liverpool. The studios have their own mini-kitchen and bathroom and are within walking distance of LILA (10-15 minutes). Studio apartments are available to students over the age of 18.
Studio Apartments also offers:
- Single and double apartments available
- Fastest Wi-Fi available
- Power showers
- Hotel-style access systems
- Mini fridges in all rooms
- On site laundry service (approximately £2-£4)
- 24 hour reception and check in service
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.
Contact us for information about dates & prices
Other Programs by this School
LILA also offers programs for juniors in Liverpool. Please contact us for more information.
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