T: 44 (0) 117 926 9400 E: info@livingenglish.com

Your Questions

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Online Tuition Courses

What will I need?

To use our online platform, you will need:

  1. A computer (p.c or laptop) with an average or above-average processing speed. If you are using a very old computer you may need to upgrade or borrow a computer for effective online tuition. It is NOT possible to do the  lessons on an iPad or tablet

  2. A computer with a working webcam and microphone. Click to 'enable' the microphone and camera within the browser when you start the session

  3. The most up-to-date version of Chrome or Firefox. If it is already on your computer, please ensure that you click 'update' before using the system. Older versions of Chrome may not support the full video conferencing functionality

  4. A relatively fast and reliable internet connection - you can check the speed using this link: https://fast.com/en/gb/ You need at least 5 mbps.

How do I book lessons?

You can book an online tuition course with LLE here.

The minimum number of hours for each booking is 5 hours. This will give you 10 lesson credits of 30 minutes. Once you have started your online tuition course, you can purchase more credits within our booking system.

How much does it cost?

  • General English; £55 per hour

  • Business English, English for Exams, Academic English: £65 per hour

What do the course fees include?

Online Tuition Course Fees Include:

  • Individual tuition (number of hours booked) designed to meet your needs

  • Access to LLE’s online tuition platform

  • Study materials provided by your teacher

  • Progress report

  • A free 15 minute session at the start of the course to test your connection and meet your teacher

  • Support from Living Learning English staff 

How do you select a teacher for me?

Living Learning English course managers will match you with a teacher who is qualified and experienced in delivering a course that meets your needs. Please provide as much information as possible on your booking form about your goals for the course so we can find the best teacher for you.

What if I need to cancel a lesson?

All online tuition is scheduled within our Student Portal.  You can see the lessons you have booked on your calendar in your local time.

You must be prepared and ready to start the lesson 5 minutes before the scheduled time. If you need to reschedule a lesson in an emergency, then please give your teacher as much notice as possible:

Rescheduling Lessons:

  • You must give 18 hours notice to reschedule the lesson
  • If you do not notify your teacher as above, the lesson will be forfeited.
  • If you do not log on to join the lesson within 15 minutes of the agreed start time, the lesson will be forfeited.

British Council Accreditation: LLE is accredited by the British Council for home tuition English courses in the UK.  This accreditation does not currently extend to our online English language courses and will not apply to any subject tuition.

What platform do you use for the online courses?

Our online courses are primarily conducted through our online teaching platform. All you need is a stable internet connection and a laptop, MacBook or PC with a microphone and camera.

Do I need any special software or hardware to join?

You require a laptop, MacBook or PC to join our course. We will set you up on our online teaching platform for the lessons.

How interactive are the online courses compared to the in-person ones?

Our online courses are designed to be as interactive and engaging as our in-person courses. The courses include real-time conversations, presentations, interactive exercises, and quizzes, ensuring a comprehensive learning experience.

Can I switch between online and in-person courses?

Yes, you can. If you start with an online course and later decide you would like the immersive experience of our in-person courses, we can arrange that for you, and vice versa.

Are the online course schedules flexible?

Absolutely! We understand that our students have varied routines, especially when joining from different time zones. We try our best to accommodate your preferred times and days.

How are payments made for online courses?

Payments for online courses can also be made through flywire, just as with our in-person courses. Visit www.payment.flywire.com to make your payment securely.

Is there any difference in the quality of teaching between online and in-person courses?

The quality of teaching remains consistent across both platforms. Our teachers are trained to deliver high-quality education, whether it's in-person or online. The main difference is the mode of delivery.

Do online courses also come with homework and self-study materials?

Yes, just like our in-person courses, online courses will include homework and additional resources to enhance your learning outside of the scheduled lessons.

Can I get a certificate for completing the online course?

Yes! You receive an LLE Certificate of Completion after your course.

Are group sessions available online, or is it strictly one-on-one?

Our online courses are 1:1 as we believe strongly in tailoring the course to your needs.

How do online courses handle the practical aspects of language learning, like pronunciation and speaking?

Our online courses are designed to be interactive. Teachers use various tools and methods, such as real-time conversations, listening exercises, and pronunciation drills, to ensure you're getting comprehensive language training, including the practical aspects.

What happens if I'm not satisfied with the online course?

Whilst we strive to give you the best experience if possible, if you are not satisfied with your course, we will help you find a better suited teacher to enhance your experience.

 

Prospective Teachers

What qualifications do I need to teach homestay or online courses with you?

We expect our teachers to have a recognised degree plus one of the following:

  • CELTA,
  • Trinity TESOL,
  • Primary PGCE, PGDE or BEd
  • Secondary PGCE or PGDE in English or MFL

Experience in teaching is highly regarded, especially if you're planning to teach specialised courses.

How does the selection process work?

After you submit your application, our team reviews it. If shortlisted, you'll be invited for an interview, possibly a teaching demonstration, and thorough vetting of your credentials. For homestay teachers, there's an additional process of inspecting your home to ensure it meets our standards.

Is there an orientation or training programme before I start?

Yes, you will have an orientation programme where someone from our team will help set you up to teach with LLE.

How flexible is the teaching schedule?

For online courses, there's a degree of flexibility, and schedules can be negotiated directly with students. For homestay courses, teaching typically adheres to a pre-defined structure, but there's room for negotiation based on your availability and the student's needs.

How much can I expect to earn?

Earnings vary based on the type of course, its duration, and other factors. Once you're shortlisted, we'll discuss remuneration in detail, providing a clear picture of potential earnings.

Will I receive support in course planning and materials?

Absolutely! We provide full ongoing support, including access to a range of teaching materials and resources. Our team is always available to assist with course planning, addressing any challenges, and ensuring you're equipped to offer the best learning experience.

Do I need any specific technology for the online courses?

A stable internet connection, a Laptop, MacBook or PC with a good-quality camera and microphone are essential for online courses. We will set you up with an account on our online teaching platform after onboarding.

How do I ensure my home is suitable for homestay courses?

For homestay courses, your home should offer a clean, comfortable, and conducive environment for learning. It should have a dedicated space for lessons and ensure the student's room is cosy and private. We'll provide guidelines and inspect homes to ensure they meet our criteria.

Am I responsible for the student's meals and activities during homestays?

Yes, teachers are responsible for providing meals and activities, excursions, and cultural experiences.

Can I teach both homestay and online courses?

Certainly! Many of our teachers opt for a mix of both to ensure variety and flexibility in their teaching schedules however, just not at the same time.

How do I apply?

If you are interested in becoming a homestay teacher for Living Learning English, please contact us for further information. We look forward to hearing from you!

Your Stay

When does the course start? 

Courses are normally from Sunday evening to Saturday morning, although other arrival days may be possible by arrangement. You may book any number of weeks at any time of the year including Christmas. 

What about the teachers?

All our teachers are carefully selected for their ability to deliver a professional English language course to meet your needs for learning English. Our teachers receive full, on-going support from Living Learning English.  

How do we choose a suitable teacher?

A good match between teacher and student is the basis of our success in providing homestay English courses. The booking form provides us with information about your English learning needs, location, accommodation and food requirements as well as your interests. From this information, we can provide you with a teacher who is available on the dates you have given. 

How is the course planned?

At the beginning of the course, the teacher will plan your course with you following a needs identification analysis. This ensures that the course meets your exact learning needs - no two courses are ever the same! Your detailed educational plan is reviewed at the end of each week and new targets negotiated.  

Can I bring my partner/child/friend?

We are very flexible and can offer various combinations of courses. For example, a parent may bring a child and share lessons with the teacher or use local child care options whilst the parent is having lessons; or a husband or wife can accompany the person having lessons – just let us know!

How do I get to my teacher’s home?

From all major airports, there are good bus and/or rail connections to all major cities – we will advise on the nearest airport and bus/train station to your teacher’s home and meet you there. This service is free. Or for a fee, we can meet you at the airport – we will advise on airport transfer fees. All Young Learners (under 18s) must book an LLE transfer service.

What sort of clothes should I bring?

Casual to smart casual is all you’ll need. It’s a good idea to bring a waterproof coat/jacket, a jumper and an umbrella - even in the summer, it may rain! A pair of strong shoes for walking is also useful. 

Can I wash my clothes?

Yes. All teachers will let you use the household washing machine and you’re also welcome to use the iron if necessary. 

What hours will I be working?

Depending on the number of lessons you’ve booked, you’ll start at around 9am and work through until lunchtime, with a break for coffee. Twenty-five or more hours per week mean further lessons after lunch, until mid-afternoon. 

What about self-study?

There’s around an hour of homework each day to follow on from the lessons and to prepare for the next day. We also encourage you to read English newspapers or magazines and/or watch TV/listen to the radio, either on your own in your room or with your teacher and family.  

And if I need to contact my office?

The time in England is an hour behind most of Europe, so there’s usually an opportunity to phone work before lessons start. The coffee break provides another opportunity, and then there’s most of the afternoon available to you as well if required.  

How do I access the Internet?

All our teachers have WIFI internet in their homes available for you.

Will I be able to use my smartphone?

Yes, just make sure that you have a ‘roaming’ facility and then you’ll be able to use your phone the same as at home. But remember, international call and data rates can be quite expensive. By arrangement, you can have your office, family or friends call you on your teacher’s landline, or use the home WIFI to connect online.

Can I smoke?

Sorry, but all teachers have a 'no smoking inside' policy – however, you’re welcome to smoke outside the house.  

What’s the food like?

Food in England is now very international and our students often comment on how good the food is in their teacher's home! Please let us know if there is anything you don’t eat or if you have any special dietary requirements.  

What if I become unwell?

Living Learning English offers you FREE travel insurance. This is included in your course fees. We can arrange for you to visit a doctor or dentist if necessary. 

Your insurance policy will be issued with your course booking documents. Cover commences as soon as you leave home on the first day and ends when you reach home on the last day of the trip. To view the travel insurance summary of cover, please see our booking terms.

Is there anything special I should bring?

Yes - a good dictionary is essential!  

What about money for excursions and daily expenses?

Visa and MasterCard are the most commonly used credit cards and you will be able to use Chip+Pin payment, contactless, or withdraw cash in Pounds Sterling from ATMs, as required – there may be a small charge for doing this, or you may be charged interest or exchange commission by your own bank.  

How much will I need? Below you can find information about average costs: 

UK cost of Entertainment  

  • Cinema: £9 
  • Theatre: £25 +  
  • Museum or cultural attraction: £5 - £25  
  • Bowling: £10 - £15 
  • Day Membership of private sports club: £15 + 

UK Cost of Food and Drink  

  • Average pub meal: £8 - £14
  • Average restaurant meal: £20 -£30 
  • Pint of beer: £4 
  • Average bottle of wine: £8 - £15 
  • Average meal for two in a mid-priced restaurant: £50  

Don't forget you need to pay all entrance fees etc for excursions for you and your teacher - these are not included in the course fees, except on Young Learners courses.

How do I make a payment?

We have partnered with flywire to make it easier for our payers to send payments from around the world. Whether you are looking to make an online payment or send a bank transfer to Living Learning English, this method of payment is the most secure and efficient way of moving money from your home bank account. To make a payment please visit www.payment.flywire.com

Quality English Accredited by the British Council for the teaching of English in the UK English UK Member El gazette
StudyTravel Network Secondary School Swards Education Stars - 2015 Award By Students - Best Language School in England ST Star Awards - Shortlisted 2015 - English Language School Europe