Our ESOL sessions (English for Speakers of Other Languages) are bringing hope and confidence to young people at New Horizon Youth Centre.
Hope – the people and studying together. We share the same journey and culture and the teacher and all the staff are good so there is hope to keep moving forward. SA
This Refugee Week 2026 the theme is ‘courage’ and the new ESOL report showcases how our sessions allow young people, many of whom are refugees, to have courage get the housing they deserve and fulfil their potential.
Our weekly sessions, run by Maria, Jobs Education and Training Worker, give young people new skills in English, knowledge about living in London and social connection that is so important for young refugees as they find their feet in the UK. With practical English language skills, in 2025-6 166 of 233 young people went on to have a positive education or employment outcome.
The team have written a short report to showcase how the sessions are delivered, the therapeutic practice behind it and the strength and confidence it gives young people.
Before, when I come to New Horizon I can’t speak English. I can’t [be] confident. But now I learn in ESOL I am better now. I’m not perfect but I try a little bit… I feel more confident about how housing works. HG
Read the ESOL Learning report here.
