Welcome to CAVC English Academy
The CAVC English Academy is part of Cardiff and Vale College, the largest further education college in Wales and part of one of the largest college groups in the United Kingdom. Located at our City Centre Campus in the heart of Cardiff, the Academy provides high-quality English language programmes in a welcoming, professional learning environment with excellent student support. Learn English in the Capital of Wales. Welcome to CAVC English Academy, based at the City Centre Campus of Cardiff and Vale College in Cardiff, United Kingdom.
We offer structured, high-quality English language programmes designed for students who want to:
- Enter UK universities
- Progress to vocational or academic study
- Improve career opportunities
- Communicate confidently in English-speaking environments
Cardiff is a vibrant, compact and welcoming capital city. It combines historic landmarks, a beautiful waterfront, modern shopping and excellent transport links. Compared to many UK cities, Cardiff offers a high quality of life at a more affordable cost. Studying at CAVC English Academy means developing your English within an authentic British college environment, learning alongside both local and international students and experiencing everyday life in the UK.
Why Choose CAVC English Academy?
- Located in a modern UK college campus
- Experienced and qualified English language teachers
- Clear academic progression routes
- Supportive and inclusive learning environment
- Excellent welfare and safeguarding systems
- Affordable tuition and accommodation options
All information below reflects our current course provision and delivery.
Our English Courses - Overview
All courses are delivered at our modern City Centre Campus in the heart of Cardiff, providing students with access to excellent facilities and a vibrant city centre location.
Key information:
• Maximum class size: 18 students
• Minimum age: 16 years
Small class sizes ensure personalised attention, active participation and a supportive learning environment where every student has the opportunity to develop their confidence and language skills.
General English Skills (A1–A2+)
Course Description
This course is designed for beginner and elementary learners who want to develop practical, everyday English in a supportive environment.
Students build strong foundations in speaking, listening, reading and writing, focusing on real-life communication and confidence building.
Course Aims
- Build core grammar and vocabulary
- Improve pronunciation and fluency
- Increase listening confidence
- Prepare students for progression to IELTS or vocational courses
Learning Outcomes
By the end of the course, students will be able to:
- Communicate effectively in everyday situations
- Use basic sentence structures accurately
- Understand short written and spoken texts
- Participate in basic discussions and role plays
Key Course Information
- Weekly taught hours: 15 hours
- Course length: 4–12 weeks
- Start dates: January, April, September
- Teaching days: Monday–Friday
- Entry level: Beginner–Elementary (placement tested)
- CEFR Level: A1–A2+
2. Introduction to IELTS
Band 4.0–5.0 | CEFR A2–B1
Course Description
This course prepares students for the IELTS Academic examination at foundation to intermediate level.
The course balances exam preparation with academic English development, ensuring students build both exam technique and real academic language skills.
Course Aims
- Strengthen academic reading and writing skills
- Develop structured IELTS Task 1 and Task 2 writing
- Build effective listening strategies
- Improve fluency and confidence in speaking
Learning Outcomes
Students will be able to:
- Understand IELTS task formats and marking criteria
- Produce structured responses for Task 1 and Task 2
- Apply time management strategies in exam conditions
- Demonstrate improved lexical range and grammatical accuracy
Key Course Information
- Weekly taught hours: 15 hours
- Course length: 4–12 weeks
- Start dates: January, April, September
- Teaching days: Monday–Friday
- Entry requirement: IELTS 4.0 or equivalent or internal placement test
- CEFR Level: A2–B1
3. Academic IELTS (5.5+)
Course Description
An intensive preparation course for students targeting IELTS Band 6.0 or above for UK university entry.
The programme focuses on academic writing, critical reading, advanced vocabulary, exam technique and independent learning skills required for higher education.
Course Aims
- Develop advanced academic writing
- Improve comprehension of complex texts
- Enhance academic speaking fluency
- Refine exam strategy and time management
Learning Outcomes
Students will:
- Produce coherent academic essays with clear argumentation
- Analyse complex reading passages efficiently
- Deliver extended spoken responses with confidence
- Apply advanced grammar accurately
Key Course Information
- Weekly taught hours: 15 hours
- Course length: 6–23 weeks (September–January or September–April)
- Start dates: September and January
- Entry requirement: IELTS 5.5 or equivalent or placement test
- CEFR Level: B2+
Academic Calendar Teaching
You can start your course on any Monday during term time. However, we have three main entry points each year, and we strongly recommend beginning at the start of one of these intakes to make the most of your learning experience:
- January
- April
- September
Exact published start and end dates are available on our Fees and Dates section and are confirmed in your offer letter.
Term Dates
Below are the official term dates for CAVC English Academy for the 2025–2026 academic year.
Autumn Term 2025
Start date: 8th September 2025
End date: 17th December 2025
Half-term break: 27th October – 31st October 2025
Total length: 13 weeks
Students pay for 12 weeks of tuition.
Spring Term 2026
Start date: 5th January 2026
End date: 27th March 2026
Half-term break: 16th February – 20th February 2026
Total length: 11 weeks
Summer Term 2026
Start date: 13th April 2026
End date: 3rd July 2026
Half-term break: 25th May – 29th May 2026
Total length: 11 weeks
Teaching Days
Teaching takes place: Monday to Friday
Non-Teaching Days
There are no classes on the following days:
• UK public holidays
• Published half-term breaks
• The Christmas closure period
A full academic calendar, including specific term dates and holiday periods, is provided to students before the start of their course.
Minimum Enrolment
The standard minimum enrolment period for all courses is 4 weeks, as this allows students sufficient time to settle into classes and make meaningful academic progress. However, we understand that some applicants may require a shorter period of study. Requests for enrolment of less than 4 weeks will be considered on an individual basis during the application and interview process, subject to availability and academic suitability.
Teaching and Learning
Our Methodology
We use a communicative, student-centred approach that places active learning at the heart of every lesson. Students are encouraged to participate, collaborate and apply their English in meaningful, real world 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.
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.
Fees, Payments and Refunds
All tuition fees are clearly published. There are no registration fees or hidden charges. Fees are reviewed annually.
Tuition Fees Full-Time Courses (15 hours per week)
Weekly rate: £225
Minimum enrolment: 4 weeks
Autumn 2025
8th September 2025 – 17th December 2025
Half-term break: 27th–31st October 2025
Fee: £2,700 (13 weeks, pay for 12 weeks)
Spring 2026
5th January 2026 – 27th March 2026
Half-term break: 16th–20th February 2026
Fee: £2,475 (11 weeks)
Summer 2026
13th April 2026 – 3rd July 2026
Half-term break: 25th–29th May 2026
Fee: £2,475 (11 weeks)
Part-Time IELTS (3 hours per week)
Autumn 2025: £600
Spring 2026: £550
Summer 2026: £550
Payments, Cancellations and Refunds
Full tuition fees must be paid on enrolment.
Payment is made via TransferMate or bank transfer to our bank account. Details will be provided on the offer letter.
Your place is confirmed once a first payment of 50% has been received.
Cancellation and Refund Policy
Cancellation requests must be made in writing.
- More than 28 days before the course start date: full refund.
- Fewer than 28 days before the course start date: up to 50% of tuition fees may be retained.
- After the course has started: refunds are not normally available.
Refunds are processed using the original payment method.
Full Terms and Conditions are available on our website.
Student Support and Welfare
Student well-being is central to our provision. We are committed to creating a safe, supportive and inclusive environment where students can thrive both academically and personal.
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.
Under-18 Safeguarding
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.
International Student Support
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.
Facilities
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
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.
Arrival, Departure and Settling into Life in Wales
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.
Quick links
British Council Accreditation
Centre Information
*All information published on our website reflects the courses currently delivered and is reviewed regularly to ensure it remainsaccurate and up to date.
