For many people, learning English isn’t about exams or qualifications. It’s about being able to speak to others, feel understood, and take part in everyday life with confidence.
For Raft and Samah, learning English was challenging in different ways. Speaking felt uncomfortable. Writing was difficult. Conversations could feel intimidating, even when they wanted to join in.
Before:
Before the course, Raft struggled with confidence when using English, particularly when speaking with others. Everyday conversations could feel stressful, and expressing thoughts clearly wasn’t always easy.
Samah shared a similar experience. Before starting the course, writing and speaking fluently felt out of reach. He explained that “I couldn’t write or speak fluently”, which made communicating with others feel daunting.
Like many ESOL learners, both Raft and Samah wanted to improve their English so they could communicate better with the people around them, not just to learn the language, but to feel more confident using it in real life.
During the course:
As the weeks went on, something began to shift.
In a calm, welcoming classroom, Raft and Samah were encouraged to practise without pressure. Lessons focused on real life English, with space to ask questions, make mistakes and grow at their own pace.
Raft spoke about how important that support was, saying that “the teacher helped me and supported me every step”. Feeling supported made it easier to keep trying, even when English felt difficult.
After:
By the end of the course, both learners said they felt much better about their English.
Raft noticed a real difference in how confident he felt speaking with others. He shared that “now I can speak confidently and communicate better with people” in everyday situations.
For Samah, progress in writing and speaking brought a new sense of independence. He reflected that “now I write and speak with more confidence”, something that once felt out of reach.
These changes were not about perfection. They were about feeling more comfortable, more capable and more connected. Samah explained that the course helped him because “it helped me communicate with people around me”, making daily life feel easier and less isolating.
Looking Ahead
Perhaps the most meaningful change for Raft and Samah is how they now feel about themselves. With growing confidence in their English, everyday life feels a little lighter, and the future feels more open.
When asked if they would recommend the course to someone else, both learners said yes, not because it was easy, but because it genuinely helped. Raft felt that “it really helps you”, while Samah pointed to the learning environment, explaining it mattered because “the teacher is kind and supportive”.
Raft and Samah’s stories remind us that progress does not always come in big moments. Sometimes it is found in small steps. Speaking up. Being understood. Feeling included.
Their before and after is not just about learning English. It is about confidence growing quietly, one conversation at a time.
If you are thinking about improving your English, you do not have to start with confidence. You just have to start.
Our ESOL courses are designed to support learners at their own pace, in a welcoming and understanding environment.
Find out more about our upcoming ESOL courses and how to take your first step.
