English Language Assistant
Closing Date: 05/06/2026

The English Language Assistants (ELAs) work with the EAP (English for Academic Purposes) Learning Developers to provide English language development opportunities to students across the university. Students with English as an additional language can access a range of provision including short courses, one-to-ones, discussion groups and more. This varied offering allows students to focus on the different skill areas - listening, reading, speaking and writing – and in contexts that are relevant to supporting their study and engagement with activities at university.  EAP learning development is based in the supported learning area in the library, with some provision also offered online.

English Language Assistants support some of these language development sessions, particularly those focused on spoken English. Primarily, they contribute to the discussion groups - friendly, informal, conversation-based sessions that run up to three times a week in Terms 1 and 2, and once a week in Term 3. These sessions not only provide a space for students to practise their English, but also a supportive community, where students can share their experiences of studying in an additional language and living in a new cultural context. ELAs also work with some students on a one-to-one basis to provide additional conversation practice. Other activities they are involved with include Welcome Week induction events and some social 'tea and chat' events.

The English Language Assistants support the discussion group scheme. They facilitate discussion activities in small groups, helping to establish an inclusive, friendly and supportive environment where students can develop confidence and fluency in spoken English and can make connections with others. They also carry out conversation 1-1s with a small number of students each term. These 1-1s are aimed at supporting individual students to have regular opportunity for low-stakes, casual conversation in English. Each conversation 1-1 is 30 minutes, with an additional 30 minutes allocated for preparation before, and reflection following the 1-1. Finally, the ELAs support Welcome Week activities, sharing their experience and perspectives on study with new international students, and helping establish a sense of community.

ELAs are required to:

• Attend approx. 3 hours of training in late September/early October and other training as required for supporting activities throughout the year
• Support Welcome Week activities run by the EAP learning developers: an 'Orientation to UK Study' session, and 'English language tea and chat'
• Support the discussion group scheme: work up to 3 hours per week supporting discussion groups under the direction of an EAP learning developer who leads the sessions (materials, guidance and training will be provided)
• Attend regular meetings for debriefing and reflection
• Provide 1-1 conversation practice for individual students each term, including preparation and reflection time.

Essential:  

• Final year undergraduate student in academic year 2026-27
• A good academic track record and a high standard of spoken English
• Good interpersonal skills
• Reliable and approachable
• Able to demonstrate sensitivity to the needs of students with English as an additional language
• A reflective approach, with an interest in personal and professional development
• Friendly and welcoming, helping to build community
• Willingness to take direction and work within the guidelines of the scheme

Desirable:

• Ability to work effectively in a 1-1, peer-to-peer, setting.