A truly international IELTS class at Cardiff and Vale College

A Cardiff and Vale College IELTS group has become truly multi-multinational, consisting of 15 learners from 13 different nationalities.

The class comprises students from all over the world – Brazil, Cameroon, China, France, Greece, Italy, Mexico, Portugal, Spain, Sri Lanka, Turkey and Thailand. IELTS, or the International English Language Test System is the international standardised test of English language proficiency for non-native speakers.

The international students are always keen to mix, work and socialise with as many different nationalities as possible when on the course, often describing it as the best feature of their stay.

Jim Shields, CAVC’s Deputy Head of English for International Students, said: “The students are experiencing the benefits of sharing their cultures, ideas, opinions and languages under the umbrella of IELTS – a test of English which explores global perspectives and encourages open-minded opinions.

“There is a lovely sense of community within the group as they are also very active together socially. With their course they have been able to visit London, Oxford and the beaches of West Wales as well as local visits to museums, opera, Cardiff Bay and have even tried indoor surfing and go-karting!”

The IELTS students share and develop their study skills on the full-time course for 16 hours a week with the College’s English for International Students Department at its new City Centre Campus.

“Their IELTS exams are getting close now and the students all have their heads down to focus on the results they need to progress along their chosen career paths,” Jim said. “Further studies among the group include Medicine, Engineering, Architecture, Psychology, Health and Social Care, Teaching, A Levels at CAVC… or into employment all over the world. We wish them all the best of luck!”