We are very excited to announce that we have just launched our new #LoveESOL website! 🎉
#LoveESOL is our campaign to promote ESOL (English for Speakers of Other Languages). We are calling for more funding from the government because we believe ESOL is a vital public service that benefits all of us, not only people who have just arrived in the UK. ESOL is crucial for healthy communities, a thriving economy and the well-being of people who are new to the UK. Behind the campaign is a coalition of ESOL practitioners, migrants’ rights campaigners, researchers and community and union organisers.
We meet annually to look at ESOL provision in London and share our expertise with the GLA.
Current #LoveESOL campaign asks are:
👉 Better access to free ESOL classes for all, regardless of childcare or work commitments, or immigration status. We want free ESOL provision, providing childcare and removing eligibility criteria.
👉 An ESOL for London website with a database of what’s on offer across London for students to identify a suitable class. With information on cost, childcare, location, day and time, levels and certificates. PLUS information about any immigration status restrictions.
👉 Solidarity for a bigger voice for ESOL to help restore funding and improve public understanding of ESOL students’ experiences and the importance of ESOL.
Take action!
Our main action at the moment is to get people to sign an open letter to the mayor of London Sadiq Khan to ask him for a website with ESOL classes in London – we need to get as many signatures as possible before 28th April – this is the date of London Citizens Mayoral Accountability Assembly, where the candidates will be asked to commit to this.
The open letter is on the website in languages other than English too:
Other actions:
- Email your MP
- Make a video-selfie about why ESOL is important for you
There are also teaching materials for ESOL classes about the open letter, the upcoming mayoral election and our last #LoveESOL event.
We look forward to sharing updates and resources, as well as campaigning with you!
