Learning English

Overseas students have opportunities to study ELICOS (English Language Intensive Courses for Overseas Students) in Queensland independent schools for Short Term and Long Term periods of time.

School-based ELICOS programs:

• provide an environment where students are mixing with other students of the same age, and not with adult learners
• operate in a structured school program, with students being required to wear school uniforms, follow school routine and rules, etc., as appropriate for their age
• have teachers who are trained ESL teachers as well as being experienced primary or high school teachers
• have staff highly skilled in cross-cultural communication and interaction
• offer programs very closely linked to school curricula
• teach students important research and high school preparation skills
• teach students how to become 'independent learners' in the Australian education system
• provide a transition from ELICOS to mainstream schooling for long term students
• make careful Homestay placements to provide accommodation and general support for newly arrived students

Short Term ELICOS (Visitor's Visa)

School age students entering Australia on a Visitor's Visa may study ELICOS for up to 3 months.

Many Schools with ELICOS Programs are happy to offer individual or small group holiday programs for students visiting Australia on a Visitor's visa, as well as hosting Study Tours for school groups.

Long Term ELICOS (Student Visa)

The number of weeks required studying ELICOS before a student is ready to join mainstream classes will depend on:

• the current level of English proficiency;
• age of the student on entry; and
• year level for enrolment.

Visa conditions may also apply to periods of time studying ELICOS.

Many Schools with ELICOS Programs successfully raise students' English proficiency from beginner level to a level where they can successfully continue studies in mainstream classes with ESL support.

A student's progress in learning English will partly depend on their previous experiences with learning English, their confidence in using a new language, their adjustment to a new culture, and their commitment to make the most of the opportunities they have to learn English inside and outside of the classroom.

Schools with ELICOS have experienced staff and teachers who will assist overseas students to gain confidence in and progress with learning English, and will support students in adjusting to a new culture and system of schooling.

Schools with ELICOS may also assist students to find placements within their affiliated school, or may provide ELICOS services for other schools that do not offer ELICOS Programs.

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Registered ELICOS Courses for Queensland independent schools

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Queensland independent schools offering Primary School Accredited ELICOS Programs

Please contact these schools for information about ELICOS Programs for Primary School Age Students:

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