Learning Unlimited has worked with Learning and Work Institute to research and develop a new set of resources aimed at volunteers supporting adult English language learners and organisations using volunteers in this role. These resources are free to use for all.
Developed with volunteers with little or no training or previous experience in mind, the resources are designed to support the delivery of conversation clubs and other volunteer-led language practice for adult English language learners. However, they will be useful to anyone engaged in delivering conversation-based English language practice. The suite of resources includes:
- A set of 15 units for conversation club sessions, with supporting guidance on using them to run a conversation club.
- A guide for volunteers supporting English language learners.
- A guide for organisations working with volunteers in English language provision.
- A conversation practice toolkit full of useful ideas, activities and resources.
- A report of the research.
- A set of four supplementary videos.
In 2020, Learning & Work and Learning Unlimited were commissioned by MHCLG (Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government) to develop additional guidance for running conversation clubs online.
These resources were shortlisted as a finalist for the 2021 ELTons’ awards for Innovation in English Language Teaching, in the local innovation category.