New Talk English classes start next month

Talk English class

In the borough of Rochdale there are a considerable number of people from diverse ethnic origins, whose ability to take a full part in community life is hindered by their lack of English reading, writing and speaking skills.

In Heywood, Middleton and Rochdale there are many such people who have a tremendous amount to contribute to the community life, but their contribution cannot be fully realised without a better command of English.

Talk English is a project that aims to teach adults, with little or no English, to develop their reading, writing and speaking skills. Thereby increasing their confidence, enabling them better to access provision and services and to integrate more fully, especially into the community.

All the courses are for beginners and learners on the project can take part in outings to local resources they may not otherwise have accessed, such as to an art gallery, museum, cinema, leisure centre and trampoline park.

Talk English classes are taught by trained volunteers in community settings such as Sure Start centres, schools, libraries and community centres for two hours per week, in term time, with crèches available when required.

If you or anyone you know would like to join a Talk English ESOL class, registrations are taking place as follows:

• Monday 19 August, 10:00am until 3:00pm, at Deeplish Community Centre, 57 Hare Street, Rochdale OL11 1JT. Phone 01706 860151
• Tuesday 20 August, 10:00am until 3:00pm, at Spotland Community Centre,106-108 Spotland Road, Rochdale OL12 6PJ. Phone· 01706 354151

You can call on behalf of someone else, but you must have the person's permission and contact details.

Volunteers are trained through qualified ESOL staff and are supported throughout their time with Talk English. Volunteers also are provided with free teaching material to use in the classroom as well access to the Talk English website.

If you're interested in becoming a Talk English volunteer, you can discuss your options and be invited to an introductory session to get more information. Volunteers also receive a training day to prepare them for their role as a Talk English tutor.

Contact:

• Ruhena Begum – Project Coordinator. Phone 01706 925111. Email: ruhena.begum@rochdale.gov.uk
• Saira Banu – Project Coordinator. Phone 01706 925106. Email: saira.banu@rochdale.gov.uk
• Visit twitter.com/TalkEnglishRoch