More than 50 ESOL students, teachers, and supporters from English for Action and partner organisations gathered near Parliament on Saturday 17th May for a ‘teach-out’ to urge the government to invest in English for Speakers of Other Languages (ESOL) education. This action was organised in response to Keir Starmer’s speech and the government’s immigration white paper, which proposed new language requirements for migrants.
At the teach-out, ESOL students analysed the language used by the Prime Minister in his speech. “We are not strangers” said Doris, an EFA student from Ecuador, “I have lived here for 6 years, London is our home.”
Barriers such as long waiting lists, lack of childcare, and eligibility restrictions prevent many migrants, refugees, and asylum seekers from accessing ESOL classes. Since 2009, government funding for ESOL has been cut by over 60%, leading to reduced courses and community learning programs. This lack of access impedes migrants’ ability to advance their careers, support their children, and fully participate in their communities, often resulting in isolation and loneliness.
Anastasiia, an EFA student who participated in the teach-out said, “I had to leave my country, Ukraine, in 2022. Coming here I entrusted my children’s future to this government. English and English classes are not a luxury, it’s just our chance to make a first step to be part of this society and to be a part of this community in the UK. We don’t want to feel like strangers.”
EFA teacher, Dermot said, “At EFA we’ve spent nearly two decades building strong communities and helping people to connect, to make friends, learn together and take action for social justice together. We know what works. English helps people to talk to their neighbours, thrive at work, and participate in local groups and institutions.”Many migrants, including those with relevant qualifications, are eager to learn English to improve their job prospects and manage daily challenges. ESOL classes also provide a vital space for community connection and mental health support. The ‘teach-out’ aimed to highlight these critical issues and call for increased investment in ESOL education to support migrants in the UK.
