6 essential criteria for choosing language school

How to choose a language school

Whether it’s going to a fitness centre, studying for a qualification or taking a language course – training is always a big investment in both time and money.  As with all investments the important question is ‘what is the return on my investment?’, ‘will I be in a better position than I was before?’, ‘How will other people recognize the effort I have made?’

I have often been asked what is important when choosing a good language school – so here are some questions you should ask.  The information can be found on the school’s website, by calling directly or asking friends who are also studying there.

1. Teaching quality

• Do all teachers have a teacher qualification (CELTA, IH Certificate, Trinity TESOL or equivalent)?
• Are teachers updated and trained on a regular basis?
• Is there a Director of Studies responsible for teaching standards and consultancy for the teachers?
• Is there an accurate placement testing system to determine the student’s level and are there at least five different levels to insure that students can be placed according to their knowledge?
• Is the maximum class size less than 14 students?

2. Organization and administration

• Is the information given by the school clear about course length, number of hours, dates and conditions?
• Are prices transparent, specifying which services and good included?
• Is the enrolment procedure and payment process efficient and appropriate?

3. Student care

• Are the premises and facilities suitable for language learning?
• Does the school ensure the welfare and safety of their students?
• Is there a clear procedure for dealing with complaints or grievances, should they arise?
• Is there efficient administration and customer service for students on site?
• Is the end-of-course certificate linked to the Common European Framework and is recognized by companies and organizations worldwide.

4. Other services

• Is there an optional program for extra-curricular learning, cultural and social activities?
• Do the school premises offer a suitably resourced self-study facilities be they a resource centre or online materials?

5. Quality management

• Are classes observed on a regular basis in order to make sure that teachers follow the standards?
• Does the school obtain feedback from their students at the end of the course to monitor quality and to improve services?
• Are there any external inspections on a regular basis to check on quality standards?

6. Accreditation

• Is the school accredited by any external associations?

If yes, what are the accreditation bodies and what are their requirements for accreditation?