English Language Integration Programme
ELIP
Informal ESOL courses and capacity building measures
The SMP has been awarded funding by MHCLG in the current financial year to build ESOL capacity and support informal English courses in the region under the English Language Integration Programme (ELIP).
This is a cross-cohort programme to strengthen and enhance ESOL language learning opportunities for resettlement cohorts across England, with a particular focus on Ukrainians and Hong Kongers.
The funding aims to support SMPs to deliver innovative ideas which will bring together English language learning and help to improve integration and cohesion.
It was decided to award this funding as small grants to a range of charities and other VCSEs.
Strand 1: Capacity building
One third of the total was allocated to Strand 1 for capacity building. This funding will:
- strengthen and extend the ESOL coordination point in Norwich to Great Yarmouth,
- assist with creating an ESOL strategy in Bedford Borough,
- expand ESOL coordination to Ukrainians and Hong Kongers in Hertfordshire, and
- run an innovative art, drama and ESOL programme for 16-18 year olds in Cambridge.
In addition, we will support the launch of TERM, an online training course for teachers to improve their work with refugees and other migrants.
Strand 2: Actual courses
Two thirds of the total was allocated to Strand 2 for the actual courses. This funding will cover a wide range of activities across the region, including in some areas where little ESOL is available at present but there is high demand.
These include St. Neots, Southend, Basildon, Thurrock, March, Northstowe, Waterbeach and Cambourne. Other areas covered include Peterborough, Harlow, Cambridge City, Watford, Bedford and Central Bedfordshire, Ipswich and Colchester.