ESOL Course Helps Olha Pursue Teaching Passion

Olha Bondar (40), originally from Ukraine, found success through the ESOL course at SERC and is able to continue her passion for teaching while now living in Northern Ireland. 

On her course, Olha comments, “What really struck me about the course was how the classes were run by my tutors - they made learning so much fun! The course is taught through an eclectic approach, combining multiple methods based on learner needs. I think this is the best approach to learning as it allows for flexibility, and lessons can be adapted to different classroom dynamics. In class we were very engaged in speaking English through meaningful activities that were close to real-life situations.

“The core of this course is learning about speaking, listening, reading and writing in English. Classes have interactive elements, such as watching educational short videos, captivating discussions, and learning a lot through English role-play conversations we have with other classmates. We also had project-based tasks to complete on the course; in groups, we were given tasks relevant to real-life actions and situations, and we had to complete these tasks collaboratively and present the results to the whole class. The tutors always boosted students' confidence by providing support and constructive feedback on student work, so everyone felt confident expressing themselves and felt included in the friendly atmosphere of the classroom.” 

Olha continues, “During my time teaching in Ukraine before moving to Northern Ireland, I always strived to create lessons that were both valuable and enjoyable for my students. I strongly believe that if a student enjoys the learning process, they will be far more successful in their studies, and I was immediately drawn to the approach my tutors took to teaching at SERC. Their teaching style embodies the principles I hold dearly: a mastery of teaching that ensures enjoyment, fun, and genuine usefulness for students. Their lessons were so different from the old-fashioned, boring methods of teaching, and it inspired me to improve my own career as a teacher. I am now employed at SERC as an ESOL teacher, and I would like to further develop my skills in this area. SERC provides numerous opportunities for growth, improvement, and learning and I’m excited to pursue this pathway!”  

Ohla concludes, “Overall I would absolutely recommend SERC; the classes are student-centred and personalised, tailored to students' goals, with equal attention given to everyone and where everyone's opinion is valued. I especially encourage everyone struggling with English to come to SERC - life in a new country will be successful through starting at SERC and learning English; the college offers excellent lessons with wonderful teachers, great support services, and opportunities for further development.” 

Register to attend our Open Evening from 5pm – 8pm on Thursday 5 June at the college’s Bangor, Downpatrick, Lisburn and Newtownards Campuses and find out more about part-time and full-time courses.

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