Frequently Asked Questions

When do the courses start?

Our courses run for 26 weeks from w/c 25th September 2023 to w/c 13th May 2024. All courses run between 18:30 and 20:30 one evening per week (please see individual language pages for details of the day of the course you are interested in). Please note there are breaks in October for half term, Christmas, February half term and Easter.

My course runs on a Monday; what happens when this falls on a Bank Holiday?

Courses will not run on Bank Holidays; if a class falls on a bank holiday, the tutor will agree on a suitable date and reschedule any cancelled classes.

What are the course fees?

The 26-week course can be paid in full (£389) by the first week of lessons (w/c 25th September 2023) at the latest. Those joining the second part of the course in January 2024 must have paid their fees by w/c 22nd January 2024. Only online payment methods are available using the University's secure online payment system Shopfront.

How do I enrol and pay?

You can enrol by clicking in the box “Pay for your course” located on each of our web pages. Places are allocated on a first-come first-served basis. Please note that the payment date will be taken as the enrolment date.

Am I too old or too young to enrol for a class?

You are never too old to learn a language! Unfortunately, due to insurance purposes, the minimum age for enrolment is 18.

Do I have to have studied the language before?

A beginner’s class would be perfect if you have no prior knowledge of the language you are interested in learning.

I am not a complete beginner but I am not sure which level is best for me. What should I do?

If you are unsure of your level check out our What Level am I? chart. This gives you a clear indication of each level in line with the CEFR (Common European Framework for Languages).  If you are still unsure, we suggest that you attend the Open Evening where you will be able to speak to one of the language tutors to discuss your level.

Who generally attends the language courses?

A wide variety of people from all backgrounds attend these courses. Some wish to learn or improve a language for business reasons, whereas others want to improve their holiday conversations. The most important thing is to have a passion for learning another language.

Can you tell me about the tutors?

All of our tutors are qualified and experienced in the language they are teaching, but most importantly they are passionate and dedicated to making your language learning a fulfilling and rewarding experience. Many of our tutors are native speakers of the languages they teach.

What will the course content be like?

All of our tutors use fun and interactive teaching methods within their classes which will be suitable for the level you have enrolled in. We are proud to create an air of camaraderie and friendship in the group with the tutor motivating you to retain an ongoing interest in learning. Students are all encouraged to support one another.  Some classes will follow a particular course book which the tutor will advise of at the open evening or in your first class.

Where are the courses held?

Courses will take place at the following locations:

• Chester: Exton Park, Chester, CH1 4BJ.
• Shewsbury: Guildhall, Frankwell Quay, Shrewsbury, SY3 8HQ.
• Warrington: 2 Time Square, Warrington, WA1 2NT.

You will be notified of the actual rooms for your course one week prior to course commencement.

I have paid for my course, what happens next?

Once your payment has been received, confirmation of the course and your place on the course will be sent  via email* . You will then be notified of the actual room for each course one week prior to course commencement.

* Please note that this confirmation will still be subject to course minimum numbers being met.

Will there be any tests or examinations?

No, there will not be any formal tests.

Will I get a certificate at the end of the course?

You will receive a certificate of attendance on successful completion of the course. This is usually issued in July and sent via email. Please note that these certificates do not represent academic credit.

What if I am not able to attend a class?

Do not worry! If you know that you will not be able to attend in advance then please inform your tutor or email languagesforall@chester.ac.uk.

What will I need to bring with me?

You will need to purchase and bring the relevant course book with you each week. You will also need a pen and paper, along with lots of enthusiasm!

Would it be possible to get a refund?

We regret that we will not be able to issue refunds after week two of the course.