A group of Ealing Young Champions from the Young Ealing Foundation is launching a project to support parents who speak English as a second language. The free Find Your Voice initiative will run over three sessions on April 26, May 3, and May 10, 2025, from 4 PM to 6 PM at the Young Ealing Foundation office in West Ealing. Designed to build confidence and improve communication skills, the three weekly sessions aim to create a welcoming space where parents can practice their English, strengthen their speaking abilities, and connect with others in the community.
The group is encouraging people from all backgrounds to join, and parents are welcome to bring their children along. Alongside language practice, the sessions will include games and fun group activities. EALING.NEWS spoke to two of the young organisers behind the project, Naina and Anas.
Speaking about the initiative, Naina said, “This project is about empowering our Ealing community by opening doors through English, so everyone can connect, contribute, and belong.” Anas added, “I found developing Find Your Voice to be extremely important. It allowed me to work on a project that not only boosted my confidence, taught me teamwork and helped me learn, but also it helped me work on something that would significantly contribute to Ealing and increase English fluency in Ealing. This is extremely important as it breaks down barriers and allows people to access more opportunities within London.”
To take part, sign up at the link below:
In a world where mastering the English language is increasingly vital, understanding which English language competency tests are accepted for immigration, admission, or employment can be a daunting task. For many non-native speakers, the journey to proving their English fluency is fraught with challenges, including the high costs associated with taking these tests and the varying requirements set by different countries.
In order to study abroad, whether for business, education, or leisure, proof of English fluency is essential. Many universities conduct their programs in English, making it imperative for international students to demonstrate their proficiency through standardized tests. This article outlines the most commonly accepted English language tests for those looking to study or work abroad.
The TOEFL (Test of English as a Foreign Language) is one of the most recognized tests globally. Administered by the Educational Testing Service (ETS), it evaluates the English proficiency of non-native speakers. Many universities accept TOEFL scores for admissions, but it's important to note that the required scores can vary significantly among institutions. Moreover, TOEFL scores are only valid for two years, and the test is divided into four sections: Listening, Speaking, Writing, and Reading, each scored from 0 to 30.
Another widely accepted test is the IELTS (International English Language Testing System), which assesses the English proficiency of non-native speakers. This test is often required for admission to bachelor’s and master’s degree programs in universities worldwide. Similar to the TOEFL, IELTS scores are valid for only two years. The IELTS consists of four components: Academic Writing, Listening, Academic Reading, and Speaking.
The Cambridge English Test, offered by Cambridge University, evaluates various levels of language competency. The tests include B1 Preliminary, B2 First, C1 Advanced, and C2 Proficiency, each designed to assess different levels of English proficiency. These certificates are recognized by numerous institutions and can be crucial for those wishing to study or work in English-speaking countries.
Another certification is UNIcert, which is CEFR-based and offered by the Association of Language Centers. It provides four levels of proficiency: UNIcert® Basis (A2), UNIcert® I (B1), UNIcert® II (B2), UNIcert® III (C1), and UNIcert® IV (C2). This certification is particularly useful for those outside the United States seeking to validate their English skills.
Finally, the TOEIC (Test of English for International Communication) exam is designed for international workers and assesses practical English proficiency in a workplace context. However, it is worth noting that only a limited number of colleges recognize TOEIC certifications. The TOEIC consists of sections that cover Speaking and Writing as well as Listening and Reading.
This comprehensive overview of English language tests aims to assist non-native speakers in navigating the complexities of proving their English fluency for academic and professional opportunities abroad. By understanding the requirements and options available, prospective students and workers can better prepare themselves for success in an English-speaking environment.
As the global landscape continues to evolve, proficiency in English remains a key asset for individuals seeking to broaden their horizons. Whether it’s through engaging community initiatives like Find Your Voice or tackling the challenges of standardized testing, the importance of English cannot be overstated. It opens doors to new opportunities and experiences, fostering connections that transcend borders.
