Welcome to CAVC English Academy

Our Methodology

We use a communicative, studentcentred approach that places active learning at the heart of every lesson. Students are encouraged to participate, collaborate and apply their English in meaningful, realworld contexts.

Lessons are interactive and practical, combining:

• Pair and group speaking tasks
• Real academic and authentic materials
• Structured writing workshops
• Listening practice and skills development
• Guided reading strategies
• Regular exam preparation and practice
• Individual feedback and personalised target setting

Grammar, vocabulary, pronunciation and core language skills are integrated throughout all lessons, ensuring balanced development across speaking, listening, reading and writing.

Our teaching approach is designed to build confidence, academic ability and practical communication skills, preparing students for further study, examinations and everyday life in English.

Our Teachers

Our English Academy is proud of its experienced and highly qualified teaching team.

All English teachers:

• Hold recognised ELT qualifications such as CELTA, Trinity CertTESOL, DELTA or equivalent
• Have experience teaching international students from a wide range of backgrounds
• Engage in ongoing professional development to maintain and enhance their expertise

We are committed to maintaining high teaching standards, ensuring that students receive professional, supportive and effective instruction throughout their studies.

Assessment and Progress Monitoring

We closely monitor each student’s progress to ensure they are developing confidently and meeting their learning goals.

Students receive:

• Regular formative feedback in class
• Structured progress reviews throughout the course
• An endofcourse assessment
• Individual tutorials to discuss performance and targets

Our approach ensures that students understand their strengths, identify areas for improvement and receive clear guidance on how to progress.

Students are expected to maintain a minimum attendance rate of 80% to successfully complete their course and receive certification.

On successful completion of their course, students receive a Certificate of Attendance.

Certificates confirm the period of study and level attended, provided students have met the required attendance and course participation criteria.

Student wellbeing is central to our provision. We are committed to creating a safe, supportive and inclusive environment where students can thrive both academically and personally.

Pastoral Support

Students can access a wide range of dedicated support services, including:

• Academic tutors for subject guidance and study support
• Student Services for practical advice and day-to-day assistance
• Welfare and wellbeing advisers for personal support
• Careers and progression advice to plan next steps

Our experienced teams are available throughout your studies to provide guidance, answer questions and ensure you feel confident and supported during your time at the College.

Raising Concerns

We are committed to maintaining a safe, respectful and transparent learning environment. If students have a concern or complaint, there are clear and supportive procedures in place.

Students may:

• Speak directly to their teacher in the first instance
• Contact the International Manager, Trish Harris, at pharris@cavc.ac.uk
• Use the formal College complaints procedure

Full details of the complaints and appeals process are published online, ensuring that all concerns are handled fairly, confidentially and in a timely manner.

We welcome students aged 16–17; however, please note that we do not provide 24-hour supervision.

For students under the age of 18:

• Classes are shared with adult learners
• Homestay accommodation is required, unless the student is staying with a parent or close relative
• Parental consent and travel consent forms must be completed prior to arrival
• Curfew guidelines apply and must be followed

The College has a Designated Safeguarding Lead and trained safeguarding staff in line with UK legislation. Our safeguarding policies and procedures are designed to ensure the safety, wellbeing and protection of all learners.

Emergency Contact

The safety and wellbeing of our students is a priority throughout their time with us.

We provide:

• A 24-hour emergency contact number
• On-campus security 
• Clear medical and welfare procedures

Students are given full emergency contact details during induction, ensuring they know who to contact and what to do in the event of an emergency.

We provide dedicated support to help international students settle quickly and confidently into life in Cardiff and at the College.

We provide:

• Induction and orientation at the beginning of each term
• Guidance on visa requirements and compliance
• Advice on registering with a local GP
• Information on opening a UK bank account
• Cultural integration support and opportunities to engage with the wider student community

Our International Team is available throughout your studies to answer questions,provide practical guidance and ensure you feel fully supported during your time in the UK.

Students at the CAVC English Academy study in a modern, well-equipped environment designed to support both academic success and student wellbeing.

Students benefit from:

• Bright, modern classrooms
• Interactive screens and digital learning technology
• Library and dedicated quiet study areas
• Free WiFi across campus
• Onsite cafeteria, coffee shop, Subway and comfortable social spaces

Our City Centre Campus also offers open study hubs, student support services and communal areas where learners can relax, meet friends and practise their English in an informal setting.

Accommodation is arranged through approved partner providers.

CAVC Student Residence

Zenith Student Accommodation

Our partner student residence provider in Cardiff is Zenith Student Accommodation, offering modern, purpose-built accommodation within easy reach of the College.

Please contact us for further information regarding availability and the application process. Please note that short-term lets are not available through this residence.

Alternative accommodation providers are also available in Cardiff. We are happy to connect you directly with suitable options; however, all tenancy agreements are arranged between you and the accommodation provider.

What to expect

Rooms at Zenith Student Accommodation typically include the following, although features may vary depending on room type:

• Private single en-suite bedroom
• Shared kitchen and communal living facilities
• WiFi included
• On-site security and support services
• Approximately 10 to 15 minutes from campus
• £9,000 per academic year

Student residences provide an independent living experience, allowing you to meet other students from a range of backgrounds while enjoying a safe and well-managed environment.

Homestay Accommodation

Our homestay option offers students the opportunity to live with a welcoming local host family, providing a comfortable and supportive home environment while studying in Cardiff.

What is included:

• Single bedroom
• Three meals per day (breakfast, lunch and evening meal)
• £180 per week

Homestay accommodation is ideal for students who would like to experience British culture first-hand, practise their English outside the classroom and settle quickly into life in the UK.

All of our homestay hosts are carefully selected to ensure a safe and supportive environment. We maintain regular contact with our providers and monitor placements to ensure standards meet the expectations of Cardiff and Vale College, as well as the criteria set by the British Council.

Students are matched thoughtfully, taking into account individual preferences, dietary requirements and any specific needs wherever possible.

To ensure a smooth transition to life in Cardiff, students will receive comprehensive guidance before travelling.

Students receive:

• Full pre-arrival instructions
• Information on transfer options
• Clear accommodation check-in guidance

Airport transfers can be arranged at an additional cost. Our team is happy to advise on the most suitable travel options and arrival planning to help you arrive safely and confidently.

Social and Cultural Programme

Our optional social and cultural programme gives students the opportunity to practise their English beyond the classroom while exploring Cardiff and other iconic UK destinations.

Activities are designed to encourage cultural immersion, build friendships and enhance the overall student experience.

Activities may include:

• Guided Cardiff city tours and local experiences
• Visits to Cardiff Castle
• Trips to museums and art galleries
• Sports and wellbeing activities
• Weekend day trips to cities such as London, Bath and Oxford

All activities are optional, and some may require an additional payment. Full details and costs are shared with students at the start of term.