English Conversation for Non-Native Speakers - starts October

Who is this course for?

Applicants should already possess a good intermediate level of English, such as B2 (Cambridge First Certificate in English) or IELTS 5.5-6.5, or an equivalent level of understanding of spoken English. Anyone at B1 may also contact the tutor to discuss participation as the course would also suit those with stronger B1 proficiency.

If you are unsure if this course is at the correct level for you please contact us for a free language level check.

Course overview

This practical, in-person course is designed to help you speak English with greater confidence and clarity in everyday situations. We will join Professor Gary Cook, who will focus on key communication skills such as listening, understanding context, accurate pronunciation, intonation, and stress.

Through regular practice with English vowel sounds and word stress, you will become more easily understood in conversation. This will also help you to express your ideas more confidently and to engage naturally with English-speaking friends, colleagues, and the wider community.

We will use short dialogues to improve pronunciation, intonation, and rhythm, as well as to build vocabulary and explore idioms and everyday phrases. You will learn to recognise the difference between formal and informal language and how to use each appropriately.

Listening and comprehension will be developed using short films, supported by vocabulary lists and guided group discussions. New and challenging vocabulary will be introduced gradually, with explanations and practice questions, helping to expand your language and improve fluency.

This is not a grammar-based course, but common grammar issues will be addressed as they arise. All materials will be provided each week.

The maximum group size for this course is 16.

Term dates

•  Autumn Term: week beginning 13 October 2025 until week ending 12 December 2025

•  Spring Term: week beginning 5 January 2026 until week ending 20 March 2026

Any questions?

For your level check and any questions pre-enrolment about the content of this course please contact the tutor, Professor Gary Cook: g.cook@imperial.ac.uk

For general programme and enrolment questions please contact the Imperial after:hours Administrator, Christian Jacobi: c.jacobi@imperial.ac.uk