English for over 50s
Our courses for mature students will bolster your well-being and your English. They offer a relaxed and comfortable mixture of learning and discovery with a people of a similar age from all over the world. They are good for mind, body and soul for many reasons…
- No stress - Courses are specifically designed for mature learners, avoiding the fast pace or youthful focus of typical student classes. Relax, you are learning at your pace, and for maximum pleasure.
- Boost your confidence - Your confidence in English will open doors. It will help with travelling and communicating with friends overseas or with extended family. Many over-50s say that learning English gives them a real sense of achievement.
- Meet people from all over the world - You will study alongside peers of a similar age, making it easier to connect and share experiences. Many people form friendships that continue long after the course has ended.
- Experience a place differently - When you learn a language abroad, you’re not just a in-and-out tourist. You become part of the local way of life. You’ll get to know the culture through everyday experiences, take part in guided visits, and see the destinations from a more authentic perspective.
Elisabeth from Switzerland had this to say about her experience in Torquay on the UK coast:
I loved the course, the lunches and the trips. Everything. The atmosphere at the school is so that you feel very quick connected to other students and to the school. It is really familiar feeling here! I had two wonderful weeks here and I want to say thank you to everybody, to the teacher Margaret and the other students I met at lunch. the guides, to my host, to the staff at the reception. You all made that and a wonderful time here. Maybe I will come back in a few years for another stay.
Where will I stay ?
You can choose to stay with a host family (the best way to improve fast!) or depending on the school there are student residence, or private apartment options.
Where can I go ?
There are so many places to choose from. Read the school profiles below including cities and towns in the UK, Ireland and even New Zealand.
When can I go ?
Courses are available most months of the year. The widest choice is in the warmer months from May to September.
How much does it cost?
Again, prices vary. Contact us to discuss the destination you’d prefer, and the duration of your stay, and we will prepare a quote for you.
Over 50s English schools in the UK, Ireland and New Zealand
IH Torquay – Devon, England
Torquay is in a lovely seaside town in the south of England. The team is very experienced, and the school has a personal and welcoming feel. The Discover Devon 50+ course runs from the beginning of March to the end of September. It combines morning English classes in small groups with lunches at local restaurants with a teacher Mon-Thurs, local excursions, cream teas and coastal walks. A private car transfer is offered on arrival and you can choose to study one or two weeks on that course. IH Torquay also offers English + Golf, and English + wellness. Minimum level required A2.
ELC Chester , England
This well-known school is based in a Georgian building in the centre of Chester, a beautiful historic city near the Welsh border and about an hour from Manchester.
Their 50+ course runs for two weeks or four weeks in May, June, August and September and includes lessons in the morning and excursions/events in the afternoons. It’s perfect for learners who enjoy history, culture and small city charm. All levels accepted.
Languages United – Bath
This small and friendly school is located in the centre of Bath, a beautiful and historic city in the west of England. They also run a course called Confident English for Women Over 50 which usually runs in February and September or October depending on the year and is ideal for women who want to improve their English in a calm and supportive environment. The course runs for one or two weeks and it includes lessons and cultural visits. Level required B1.
CES Oxford and Edinburgh
Long-established sister schools with friendly teams and great teaching. Their English and Culture 50s Programme is offered in Oxford and Edinburgh. The course includes language classes and a range of cultural visits and guided tours, perfect for learners who want to explore a new city while improving their English. It runs in May/June and in November and learners need a B1 level to join.
Wimbledon School of English – London
Located in a lovely area of southwest London, Wimbledon School of English is one of the UK’s most highly regarded language schools. The 50+ English and Culture Experience runs from July to September for one or two weeks and combines enjoyable morning English classes with a varied programme of afternoon activities (Tues, Wed and Thurs). These include visits to famous London landmarks, museums and galleries, as well as a full day Saturday excursion. The atmosphere is friendly and international, ideal for mature learners who want to improve their English while discovering the best of London’s culture and history. Minimum level required A2.
IH Galway Cultural Institute, Ireland
This school is located by the sea in Galway, a lively and cultural city on Ireland’s west coast. The school has a great reputation and beautiful views of the sea.
The English Over 50s course runs on fixed dates in May, June, August and September. It lasts two weeks and includes morning lessons and a full programme of cultural and social activities, including a day trip to the Cliffs of Moher. Mixed A2-B2 levels.
Nelson English Centre, New Zealand
Nelson is the sunniest city in New Zealand, located at the top of the South Island and surrounded by three stunning national parks. The 50+ Discover English, Explore Nelson course runs in September and February each year, with options for two, three or four weeks. It includes small-group English lessons (maximum 6 students) in the mornings, afternoon excursions around Nelson, and a full-day weekend trip. The school also offers a one-week South Island Grand Tour for over 50s in October and March, combining sightseeing across the island with fun English lessons on the move, led by a teacher. All levels accepted.
Want help choosing?
At The Language House, we’ll help you choose the right course and destination based on your goals and interests. Whether you’re looking for a coastal break, a city full of history, or something livelier, we’re here to guide you. We arrange courses for all age groups including juniors and young adults, and also special courses for age 25+ 30+ and 40+ in certain schools.
Contact us for a free consultation:
