Stepping Up ( English Language for 16 – 19 year olds)

Stepping UpCourse ContentEntry RequirementsCourse ProgressionAbout Us

Stepping Up offers individualised full-time Study Programmes for 16 – 19 year old students for whom English is a second language. The Colchester Institute English Language department is a nationally recognised ‘centre of Excellence’ and provides a welcoming environment for all.

What our learners say about us


Alexandra Radita

(from Romania)







We were like a family and we supported each other. I feel very bad now that I have finished and I wish I could go right back to the very first day to start again




Zahid Bakhtini

(from Afghanistan)







Thank you for guiding me, inspiring me and making me what I am now!




Hannan Seid

(from Ethiopia)







I have improved a lot since I started ESOL and it’s with your help I have come so far. Thank you very much














Stepping Up Study Programmes equip you with English language, maths, ICT and employability skills necessary to progress onto a variety of vocational courses and, eventually, enter the world of work.

Students are prepared and entered for the following examinations: ESOL Skills for Life from Entry 1 to Level 2, Functional Skills in maths and ICT. The course also includes Citizenship Studies, Preparation for Employment, Personal and Social Skills Development and regular one-to-one tutorials. In addition, you can participate in an exciting range of enrichment and sporting activities as well as regular class trips and visits.

No formal qualifications. Language is assessed through a short interview and test.

Information for Under 18’s

Many students at Colchester Institute are under 18. In the English Language department, we have a mixture: some students are under 18 and some are adults. You may be in a class with some adult students. They will welcome you and help you with your studies. Your teachers will also work hard to keep you safe.

Commitment to Safeguarding

Colchester Institute believes the health and safety of all our students is important. All of the English Language staff are trained to help keep students safe, happy and healthy in college.

Well-being and keeping safe

Bullying [using words or actions to make someone feel bad] is not allowed in the college. The College is committed to making our classes a place where all students are respected and where bullying is not allowed. If a student has a problem or complaint, we will listen to them and work to solve the problem quickly and fairly.

What should I do if I have a problem?

If a student has a problem or complaint they should speak to their teacher or the Student Services Welfare Team (B66a, Ground Floor, Main Building, Colchester Institute). At The College at Braintree, please go to Student Services A56. Student Services are very good at solving students’ problems.

We hope you will enjoy your studies with us and that you will always feel safe and happy to study here.

While Stepping Up study programmes provide a range of general skills, further study on a specific vocational course is advised. As a well-established course, progression onto vocational courses from Stepping Up has, in recent years, included business, IT, construction, engineering, music technology, catering, hair and beauty, health and social care, art and design, sports studies, accountancy and photography.

How To Apply

Our aim is to make it as easy as possible to secure your place on your ideal programme. Simply download and complete the relevant application form and return it to our Admissions team as early as possible. You can return your completed application form in person or by post to our Colchester (for applications to Colchester and Clacton) or Braintree campuses:

Admissions Colchester Institute Sheepen Road Colchester CO3 3LL
Admissions The College at Braintree Church Lane Braintree CM7 5SN

English Language Courses (EFL, ESOL & IELTS)

We currently offer English Language courses on either a full-time or part-time basis depending on what suits you, your schedule and your needs. You can complete the online application form for the full-time Stepping Up course here

Complete Application Form – Full-Time English Language Courses (online)

If you are currently at school, please check with them as some schools will be coordinating applications centrally. If you have any further questions about the application process, please visit our Frequently Asked Questions page.