Basil Paterson
66 Queen Street Edinburgh, Edinburgh, Scotland EH2 4NA, UK
Basil Paterson
IELTS Test Preparation Course
If you would like to work or study in the UK and English is not your first language, you may need to take an IELTS examination. IELTS is the most widely recognised test of communicative English language ability, and Basil Paterson is the largest centre for this examination in Scotland. We are also now offering Computer-Delivered IELTS at Basil Paterson Edinburgh.
Our intensive full-time IELTS course combines language development lessons with practice of all the examination skills and techniques you will need to excel in the IELTS exam. As an examination centre, you can study and take your final exam in the same building.
We understand the challenges examinations in English can bring. Our examination courses help you prepare for your exam, with development of your language skills in the morning classes and improvement of your exam technique in the afternoon classes.
Exam Strategies
Focus on the techniques required to excel in your exam. Dedicated and qualified teachers will familiarise you with the format of IELTS and marking criteria, helping you understand what to do for each section.
Exam Skills Practice
Review, practice and feedback. In this session the teacher will give you the chance to practise the exam techniques you have discussed, followed by guidance on how to improve your score.
As a student of Basil Paterson we can guide you through the exam booking process and explain exactly what’s involved on exam day.
In the morning students will follow the Octorial programme and in the afternoon students will have exam preoaration classes.
Listening, Speaking, Pronunciation, Reading, Writing, Vocabulary and Grammar
Class schedule may change depending on availability and season.
Maximum | 8 students |
Age range | 16 years old and older |
Average | 27 years old |
Basil Paterson has a long tradition of academic excellence and with over fifty years of experience in English language teaching we remain dedicated to empowering each student in their future English communication.
Located in the heart of Edinburgh’s historic New Town, Basil Paterson provides a unique academic environment, where you study alongside native speakers studying for UK examinations or taking the Cambridge CELTA course.
Experienced and qualified teaching staff work hard to ensure that you receive a high level of academic support, encouraging your progression.
The focus is on learning both inside and outside the classroom and classwork is complemented by our varied social and cultural programme.
As the largest open exam centre in Scotland for IELTS and Cambridge English, we are best placed to guide you through your exam preparation courses. Studying at Basil Paterson means you have classes and take your exam in the same building. We also offer a guaranteed place on the next available exam.
Our Academic Approach
Our aim at Basil Paterson College is to provide a learning environment which helps all students to reach their full potential. Whether your objective is to improve your English skills for work, university or life in an English-speaking country, you will find that studying with us provides the focus and drive that you need. Tailored support from qualified teachers and individual coaching sessions helps our learners to achieve their aims.
What can learners achieve with a course at Basil Paterson College?
Improved confidence when communicating in English for work, study and travel
Ownership over the language learning process and development of independent study skills
The knowledge, skills and strategies needed for success in English language exams
Greater intercultural competence through working in multinational classes
Increased motivation through intensive courses which challenge and inspire learners
Learning outcomes of our programmes
No matter which course you choose to study and what goals you have it is our belief that all students achieve certain outcomes throughout their period of study with us.
Students are able to express themselves clearly and with more variety in both social and academic and business situations
They increase their fluency and accuracy in English
They have more confidence in reading and listening and will be better equipped to participate in discussions and communication
As well as spoken production being improved we will also see a better use of non-verbal skills such as body language and appropriate gestures to enhance verbal communication.
Pre-course test
We ask every student to complete a placement test before arrival and a short speaking assessment on the first day. This gives us essential information about your English language level and which class would be most suitable for you. Progress depends on motivation, self-study habits, learning strategies and language immersion. We expect students to work hard and focus on their goals.
Homework
Our courses are designed to be intensive and learners should expect homework every day and over the weekend.
Certification
At the end of your course, you are given a certificate showing your course dates, attendance and assessment of your level of spoken production, spoken interaction, reading, listening and writing skills. The levels are based on your teachers’ evaluation of your level with reference to the Common European Framework for Languages.
The nationality and age mix at Basil Paterson varies over different time periods, courses and levels. Throughout the year, the average age is 27. In the summer, the average age is 27.
In the centre of Edinburgh's historic New Town just a stone's throw away from all of the cities shops, restaurants and attractions. Ten minutes from the two main train stations and half an hour from the airport.
Homestays are carefully selected and offer students the opportunity to learn more about the local culture in a comfortable setting while studying English in Edinburgh. These homes are often between 15 - 50 minutes away from the school by public transport. Families usually offer affordable meal plans that allow you to sample the local cuisine. If you have special requests or diet restrictions (because of religion or health reasons), please let us know in advance. Your housing starts on the Sunday before your first day of class and ends on the Saturday after your last day of class, unless otherwise noted. Learn more about homestay housing
We cannot apply for visas on behalf of students. However, the school can supply you with all the documentation you need to support your visa application.
If you are studying in the UK for over 11 months, you will receive a reference number called a Confirmation of Acceptance for Studies (CAS) that you need to submit to the UK embassy along with your General Student Visa application. Students who have successfully booked a language course and have paid their fees will receive a CAS from BP. Please note that UK law states that a CAS can only be issued to students who intend to pursue English language studies for over 11 months.
If you are studying in the UK for 11 months or less, you have to apply for a special visitor visa called a Student Visitor Visa. As a student visitor, you will not be able to work part-time while studying. If you plan to study in the UK for 11 months or less, a letter of acceptance will be sent to your home address by regular mail at no charge to you.
Please note that we do not book flights for our students. If you are researching airfare costs, we recommend using Kayak.com, a search engine that lets you compare flight options from your home country to Edinburgh based on your budget, schedule and preferences.
Study abroad worry-free with Language International's health and personal effects insurance coverage. When you book a course with us, you can opt to purchase an international insurance plan that covers not only your health care cost but also loss of your personal belongings. You must book your insurance in advance when you register.
Have questions? Get answers from Basil Paterson staff, Language International student advisors, and past students.
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