Our English classes began more than ten years ago. The reason for starting the classes was to create an opportunity to build relationships with the local immigrant communities and to be a demonstration of God’s love by meeting a felt need.
The Love of God is shown by the fact that our classes are practically free, some students expressed surprise at that, because in their home country education is so expensive. Others have commented on the manner in which our teachers treat the students. One person said:
I feel like my teacher cares about me.
Another said:
Your class is not all work-sheets, you take time to teach us to speak.
In addition to English, the teachers offer help with form filling or other practical needs.
The position of teacher is respected by most cultures, so when relationships are built up, students often share their struggles and problems with us, this sometimes leads to opportunities to pray with the student.
The classes have helped to remove fear of mixing with Christians and the fear of entering a building associated with the Christian community. Being under the umbrella of the church gives the teachers freedom to talk about the Christian festivals and other religious events.
The English classes serve as a common platform where volunteers from four different churches work together, some teach others prepare the tea and coffee and look after the student’s children. The unity that comes from being in Christ is demonstrated by the diverse backgrounds of our teachers.
We use ESOL materials that we got from the British Council many years ago, so we are now looking for new resources.