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Mayor_of_London_logo.pngESOL Update for London: September 2025

Mayor of London GLA ESOL Newsletter

Contents

  • News
  • Provider spotlight
  • ESOL course vacancies
  • Learner progression opportunities
  • ESOL Jobs and Volunteering opportunities
  • Asks and offers
  • Partnerships
  • Training
  • Events
  • Resources
  • Funding and tenders
  • Data and research
  • Feedback
  • Submit an item

NEWS

MHCLG announcement: cessation of demand led ESOL funding for BN(O) status holders from March 2026

Since its launch in April 2021, the demand-led English language funding from MHCLG has supported over 19,000 BN(O)s in England to access English language courses, helping individuals build confidence, improve their language skills, and access wider opportunities. As the BN(O) community becomes more established and mainstream services become more accessible, the Department believes it is now an appropriate point to begin the transition away from tailored provision. The Department has taken the decision that from 31 March 2026, the bespoke English language funding (£850 per person, per financial year) will no longer be available. To support a smooth transition, the £850 funding remains available until 31 March 2026 for cases where ASF provision does not meet the needs of BN(O)s. This may include where ASF funded provision is full, the provision on offer is not suitable or needs supplementation, or the learner is not eligible for full funding. Unlike ASF funding, BNO ESOL funding is not means-tested. Local authorities are advised that no new enrolments should be made for English language courses that are scheduled to run beyond 31 March 2026. For courses with end dates beyond this cut-off, local authorities will be able to claim the proportion of the cost of provision up to 31 March 2026 only. Funding can only be claimed by local authorities, including adult learning services, although subcontracting is permitted. Since its launch, 9 local authorities of 32 in London have claimed funding. If you are currently supporting Hongkongers and would like to find out more about the bespoke funding, the GLA’s Hong Kong Hub would be happy to support you through the process. Contact: HongKongVCSE@london.gov.uk

Demand for ESOL Pulse Survey

The London Strategic Migration Partnership (LSMP) is looking to build a clearer picture of demand for both formal and informal ESOL in London over time. The information will play a key role in our conversations with strategic partners to improve access to ESOL provision across the city. The survey is open to formal and informal ESOL providers in London, and organisations which support access including ESOL Single-Points of Contact (SPOCs)/Advice Services. We intend to issue the survey every three months to monitor trends over time. Whether you have completed a survey before or this is your first time, we would be grateful if you would take a few minutes to submit your experiences to the latest wave (September 2025).  Find out more.

Help us understand the impact of the GLA’s ESOL Newsletter

Readers are invited to share their thoughts on the GLA’s monthly ESOL newsletter, including its impact and ways in which its usefulness to the ESOL sector might be improved. Your feedback helps us improve the resource and provide evidence of its impact to our funders. It should take no more than a minute to complete. Find out more.

New City Hall report: Bangladeshi and Pakistani women in good work

City Hall has released important new research from the Workforce Integration Network (WIN), that shines a spotlight on the voices of Bangladeshi and Pakistani women and the systemic barriers they face in accessing ‘good work’: secure, fairly paid jobs with real progression opportunities. The report reveals persistent and complex barriers despite rising educational attainment. Findings include the following:

  • Nearly half (48.1%) of Bangladeshi and Pakistani women were economically inactive in 2022, with unemployment more than three times higher than men from the same communities (16.9% v 5.5%). The gender pay gap is also stark: 60% for Pakistani women and 50% for Bangladeshi women.
  • Repeated discrimination, exclusionary workplace cultures and lack of flexible working which continue to limit women’s opportunities.  
  • Migrant women face additional challenges around language, visa status and lack of recognition for international qualifications

This timely report offers clear, actionable recommendations for employers, local authorities, and national policymakers to help dismantle structural barriers and build inclusive workplaces. Through WIN and the Inclusive Talent Strategy, the Mayor is working to ensure all Londoners can access good work and contribute to our city’s growth.  Find out more. 


PROVIDER SPOTLIGHT

Crisis

Learn more about how Crisis works in a psychologically informed way to support people with English language needs who are rough sleeping, offering both online and in-person ESOL provision.  

You can read more case studies on our webpage and submit your own.       

ESOL VACANCIES

DISCLAIMER: Please be aware that the GLA does not fund, manage or quality assure the items listed in this section unless explicitly stated 

ELTeach: Free English Classes [online]

ELTeach, a teacher training centre for CELTA, offers free online General English classes for adults at Elementary to Intermediate levels (A1–B1/Entry 1 to Entry 3). Classes are taught by CELTA trainees and cover listening, reading, speaking, vocabulary and grammar in an interactive and supportive environment.

  • A2 (Entry 2): Mondays, 5:30–7:45pm

  • A2–B1 (Entry 2- Entry 3): Mondays, Tuesdays, Thursdays and Fridays, 9:30–11:45am

  • A1–A2 (Entry 1- Entry 2): Wednesdays, 5:30–7:45pm, and Saturdays, 9:30–11:45am

Learners do not need to attend every class, though regular participation helps with progress. Contact: info@elteach.co.uk.

English conversation clubs [Waltham Forest]

Waltham Forest Libraries host free weekly Conversation Clubs for adults learning English. These fun, informal and relaxed sessions provide a welcoming space to practise speaking skills and build confidence.

  • North Chingford Library: Mondays, 1:30pm–2:45pm (term time only)

  • Walthamstow Library: Wednesdays, 9:45am–11:00am (term time only)

The sessions are run by volunteers from the Waltham Forest Adult Learning Service and are open to learners of all levels. No booking is required. Contact: conversationclub.als@walthamforest.gov.uk. 

 

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