Oxford University Press

English Language Teaching Global Blog


1 Comment

An English Test For Schools: Introducing Ana And Her Students

Ana and her studentsEarlier this year, Oxford University Press launched the Oxford Test of English for Schools – an online, English proficiency test recommended for 12-16-year-olds. It’s flexible, fast and available at Approved Test Centres worldwide. Plus, it’s the only proficiency test certified by the University of Oxford.

Teacher Ana Isabel Vázquez from Spain is excited for a version of the Oxford Test of English that has been designed especially for younger students – as she says, it’s “a test adapted to give them the best start on their English journey.”

“The younger we are able to test children’s English, the farther they will be able to take their language learning.”

Continue reading


1 Comment

Watching Students Find Success With The Oxford Test Of English

Oxford Test of English: Dr Ahmad Khalil Abdelqadar Awad“When I hand my students a certificate endorsed by the University of Oxford, it really is something amazing.”

Dr Ahmad Khalil Abdelqader Awad, an English Language Instructor and 2020 Headway Scholar from Saudi Arabia, has seen firsthand how taking the Oxford Test of English has impacted his students.

“It gives some students the confidence to pursue studies in English-speaking countries; others use their results to prove their English proficiency when they move into their chosen career. Our university requires students to have a good level of English to register, so taking the Oxford Test of English means they don’t have to take other English courses, and they can focus on their specialism.” Continue reading


3 Comments

The Power Of Proficiency: How English Changed My Life

Valeria: "It has given me confidence."

Valeria, a 22-year-old computer engineer and programmer, first started learning English from her father at home in Costa Rica.

“He spent time in Canada and the States. But I think I’m better at English than him now – don’t tell him, though!”

English proficiency for a brighter future

Her father saw the opportunities that can come from learning English during his travels overseas, and now Valeria has seen them firsthand too. “I have better job opportunities, and I get paid more because I can prove I have a great level of English.” Continue reading


5 Comments

The Complete Professional Development Guide: Books You Need To Read

Woman reaching for booksTeaching in the last few years has challenged us to adapt quickly and learn on the go! But how much time have you spent on your own professional development, and how prepared do you feel for the start of next term? As the holidays approach there is a sense of relief as we get to have a well-deserved break, but it is also a chance to get ready for the new term, whatever it may bring. To help you prepare for every scenario, we’ve created an essential reading list with English language teachers in mind! Explore the pros and cons and get practical tips for teaching online, prepare to assess your students in new ways, and learn to prioritise your own wellbeing. We’ve got you covered with best-sellers and the latest professional development books and papers written by ELT experts. Continue reading


8 Comments

How To Take Your Students On A Virtual Field Trip | Mireille Yanow

field tripMany of us recently have had to take our classrooms online. Learning the basics of virtual teaching is hard enough! Like me, you’ve probably had connection issues and are making do with limited equipment. These challenges are all part of your daily routine and you’re meeting them head-on. As teachers, we want to continue delivering the same quality education during lockdown as we were in the classroom, but are wondering how. You might have found that many of your tried-and-tested lesson plans no longer work in an online setting, and keeping primary students engaged can pose a particular problem! Thankfully, as the rest of the world adapts, some new, innovative, and engaging options are emerging. There are learning platforms with educational games (e.g. education.com) and interactive stories, however, my favourite lessons right now are virtual museum tours. Continue reading