Improving your English language
Living and studying in the UK is an incredible opportunity to enhance your English language skills. While you may have already passed tests like IELTS to get here, it's essential to keep using your English – if you don’t use it, you risk losing it.
It’s natural to gravitate toward people who speak your language, especially when living abroad, and that’s absolutely fine. However, we encourage you to make a conscious effort to practice English outside of your studies, in everyday situations. You’ll have opportunities to use it whenever you’re shopping, ordering food, or simply exploring.
Immerse Yourself
Take full advantage of the English-speaking environment by interacting with locals. Strike up conversations with shopkeepers or classmates—sometimes asking for advice, like recommendations on places to visit, can be a great way to get talking. Engaging with native speakers will help you pick up on accents, expressions, and the natural rhythm of the language.
Join Student Societies and Clubs
Student societies are excellent spaces to meet people who share your passions and interests. They’re usually very welcoming, and you’ll find opportunities to practice English while building connections. You may make lifelong friends and gain experiences that extend far beyond the classroom.
Listen to Podcasts and Watch British TV Shows
Podcasts, news programs, and British TV shows are fantastic for immersing yourself in different accents and learning colloquial language. Listening to natural conversations in these formats also helps you better understand British culture and how English is used day-to-day.
Try ‘English Hours’ in Your Accommodation
In shared accommodation, you could introduce “English Only” hours with your housemates to practice speaking English in a casual setting. This fun exercise allows everyone to improve together, creating a supportive and enjoyable way to develop language skills.
Attend English Language Support Classes
Most universities offer English support services for international students, including classes focused on everyday and academic English. Keep an eye out for language exchanges too, where you can practice English while sharing your native language with others.
Volunteer in the Community
Volunteering is an excellent way to meet new people and use English in real-world contexts. Surrounded by open-minded, helpful people, you can practice your English naturally while contributing to the community. Plus, it looks great on your CV!
Keep a Vocabulary Journal
Recording new words and phrases you hear or read is a great way to retain new vocabulary. In your journal, try writing sentences using the new words and noting down synonyms or antonyms. This practice is proven to help with memory retention, and it can be an effective way to track your progress.
Embrace Mistakes
Don’t worry about making mistakes—they’re part of the learning process. Confidence and a willingness to try, even when you’re unsure, often lead to the most improvement. Most people are understanding and willing to help you learn. Remember, the students who are comfortable making mistakes are often the ones who make the most progress.
Learning a language takes time, so be patient with yourself. Embrace the journey and enjoy this unique opportunity to learn English in the UK—it’s an invaluable part of your study abroad experience that will stay with you long after you leave.