Boarding - English as a Foreign Language

St David's is unusual among private schools for having a department dedicated solely to the education of our foreign pupils. There are three members of staff in the Department, all of whom are experienced, qualified specialist teachers of EFL to students of all ages.

Students are assessed on entry to the school, and then a programme is put in place to suit their individual needs. Pupils are grouped according to their level of English.  Boarders are given two free lessons a week.  Other lessons are charged at the rate of £16.50 each for a group of three, and £19 each in a group of two.

Lessons are offered to the full age range, from Reception to Year 13. Students can be prepared for the suite of Cambridge examinations, including the Preliminary English Test, First Certificate, Advanced Certificate and Proficiency. The preferred qualification for university entrance is currently the IELTS (International English Language testing Systems) examination, in which our current students have achieved high grades.  The minimum level for entry to university in Britain is 6.5.

The school has a large library of graded reading books adapted for foreign readers, which are selected in consultation with the teacher. Audio and visual resources are also available for students' use, together with self-access practice materials.

The English language teachers work very closely with subject teachers to ensure that students achieve the competence necessary to participate fully in school life, both in academic subjects and in extra-curricular activities.

Pupils are encouraged to participate in school events in which they can share their culture.  A Cultural Sharing Lunch is held in the Sixth Form and an Asian Evening is being held this year.