As a native English language teacher, I am continually asked for advice on how to learn English. Myself and other teachers could provide a list containing hundreds of suggestions but I have concentrated on what I consider to be the most important. Implementing these simple tips will give you the best chance to learn English.

1. Study with a qualified, experienced, engaging English language teacher

I have been a language learner (Spanish, Greek) and also an English language teacher. In my opinion it is vital to employ a teacher that is qualified, experienced and engaging to maximise your learning potential.

Qualified

The quality of the educator is very important. Anyone can call themselves an English teacher as there is no official, internationally recognised qualification to be an English teacher. Most language schools require the teacher to have undertaken Teaching English as a Second Language (TESOL) a Teaching English as a Foreign Language (TEFL) course. However, the quality of the qualification and the training varies markedly between training courses. Some only require a minimal number of hours doing a low quality course online without any practical experience.

Other courses provide very good training, the most notable is CELTA (Certificate in English Language Teaching to Adults) and the more advanced DELTA (Diploma in Teaching English to Speakers of Other Languages) from Cambridge. Their courses include both theory and practical https://www.cambridgeenglish.org/teaching-english/teaching-qualifications/celta/.

Many universities offer TESOL programs either as a minor for an undergraduate degree or as a post graduate degree. Some of the courses include a practical component. I personally chose the post graduate university pathway and have a Masters in Applied Linguistics focusing on teaching TEasOL and the structure of language. Other teachers have a Bachelor degree and CELTA. Either of these options is fine but I wouldn’t pay someone who has only completed an online TEFL course.

Experienced

More important than the teaching qualification is the experience the teacher has. An experienced teacher that has proven experience teaching English at a formal language school should always be preferred over someone who doesn’t. I am a much better language teacher now than what I first began, even though I 30was qualified, because I have learnt by experience what are the best methods to teach grammar, vocabulary, writing, reading and pronunciation. Having this experience is vital to being a good teacher.

Engaging

Having an engaging teacher can make learning fun and interesting, which helps you remember things better. Engaging teachers use exciting ways to teach, and their enthusiasm can inspire you to keep trying even when it gets tough. I know from my experience as a language learner and as a language teacher the importance of making things interesting. Along with being engaging a good teacher can explain complex grammar in a simple to understand way.

2. Use a recognised curriculum

Using curriculum that is developed and written by TESOL professionals will make your learning easier and more enjoyable. Well organised books will take you on a learning journey from beginner level to advanced level with each level book building on the grammar, vocabulary and writing techniques from the previous book. Some of the most popular curricula used in recognised language schools around the world include English File; Speak out; Cutting Edge; Keynote amongst others. I have personally taught from each of these curricula and each has their pros and cons but I recommend English File and Speak Out.

For a list of some popular online ESL curricula check out this site https://onlineteacherdude.com/online-esl-curriculum/

3. Don’t be lazy – Do extra study

I am constantly reminding my students of the importance of doing extra study or practice outside of the classroom. This may be via homework given by the teacher, extra writing practice that can be corrected by a teacher or a native English speaker that can provide feedback on how to correct the error and improve writing style.

Some students take advantage of online courses, usually on YouTube or language learning Apps. There are many great websites to help people learn English. Two of my many favourite sites are perfect-english-grammar.com and learnenglish.bristishcouncil.org A very popular App that I recommend to my students is Duolingo. Check out this list of popular websites and Apps compiled by Jesse Beck: https://www.fluentu.com/blog/english/best-websites-to-learn-english/

Some other free activities I encourage my students to do is read articles in English on your favourite topic, read children’s books in English, watch movies with subtitles in your language first then with English subtitles, talk with native English speakers, join a social club that speaks in English, join an online speaking group. Think of something you are interested in and do it in English.

4. Speak English all the time: if you use English you’ll remember it

The principle reason to learn a language is to be able to communicate with other people using the language. Be BRAVE and speak! Speaking a language is the most important thing you can do to learn the language. I continually encourage my students to speak in English irrespective of the size of their vocabulary. Using the words reinforces them and builds confidence when using other vocabulary. You will make mistakes but the more you speak the less mistakes you will make. Speak with your friends, family, colleagues and other language learners in English even if they speak the same language as you. When we speak we also have to listen, which of course helps improve out listening skills.

Check out this YouTube presentation by Tania where she provides a list of free websites you can use to practice speaking English, some of which are with native English speakers ttps://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xI7br9a__b0

5. Pay attention to grammar and syntax

Students typically fall into one of two camps when it comes to studying grammar: they either love it or hate it, with little middle ground. However, focusing on grammar is crucial for mastering correct tenses (past, present, and future), ensuring subject-verb agreement (e.g., “he is a man” instead of “he are a man”), and understanding singular and plural agreement (e.g., “she has three cats” instead of “she has three cat”). Proficiency in these grammatical aspects significantly enhances the speed and accuracy of language learning.

Syntax, or word order, is another vital element for effective English learning. English follows the standard word order of Subject – Verb – Object, and it also places adjectives before nouns as a standard practice. Placing your words in the correct order greatly enhances your chances of being understood, particularly when speaking.

Among the most challenging areas for students to grasp in English are articles (a, an, the), which can be particularly complex, especially for those whose native languages lack articles; prepositions (on, at, in, etc.); and phrasal verbs (e.g., sit down, put on), which often involve prepositions.

To help you practice these skills, here are some recommended websites:

1. British Council – Learn English
2. Perfect English Grammar
3. English Club

6. Increase your vocabulary daily

Regularly read various materials such as books, online newspapers, articles, and blogs etc. to expose yourself to different vocabulary. Start with children’s books as the vocabulary is simpler and the pictures help to identify words in their context (it’s a great excuse to read your favourite children’s books in English). Then move gradually to more difficult materials – reading about things you are interested in makes reading more enjoyable. Write down the new words in a notebook or digital document along with their meanings and then practice using them in sentences.

Utilizing flashcards is an effective technique. Create cards with words on one side and their definitions or the same word in your language on the other side. Practice saying them regularly to reinforce memory. Checkout Quizlet, an app offering flashcards, quizzes, and games for vocabulary learning. Duolingo, also includes vocabulary-building exercises suitable for various English levels.

Chatting with native English speakers exposes you to new words in practical situations. Lastly, make vocabulary learning enjoyable by playing word games like Scrabble, Boggle, or online quizzes. These interactive activities make vocabulary leaning more fun.

7. Be patient: everyone learns at different speads

People learn English at different speeds. It’s OK to learn slower than other people, it’s NOT a race. There are several factors that determine how fast someone learns a new language including, language aptitude, age, previous languages etc. It takes the average person up to 600 hours of teacher guided learning to complete Upper Intermediate (B2 level).

A common mistake students make is to rush into exam preparation courses like IELTS and Cambridge before they have an adequate knowledge of English. In my opinion the ideal study plan is to successfully complete upper intermediate (or preferably higher) in a General English course before moving to the exam preparation courses. As can be seen by the comparison chart, students who are at B1 level (Intermediate) will get on average a 4.5-5.0 IELTS score. Check out the CEFR website https://www.coe.int/en/web/common-european-framework-reference-languages/ and Cambridge https://www.cambridgeenglish.org// and IELTS https://ielts.org/

Australia is a fabulous place to study and currently there are more than 500,000 international students who have made the decision to leave their home country and study in Australia. I have been involved in international education for more than 20 years and I often ask my students why they chose to study in Australia and not in other countries like Canada, England, New Zealand and the United Sates. Their answers vary however there are a number of common reasons. I have complied this list to help anyone who is thinking of studying in Australia and wants to know why other students chose to study here. I hope you find this helpful in your study journey,

1. World class education: Universities, Language Schools, VET courses

Australia is known for its world-class education system, offering top-ranking universities, colleges and language schools. Australian Universities consistently rank highly in the various Ranking Systems. Here are the top ranked Australian Universities for 2024 according to QS World University Rankings,. Each ranking company uses different criteria to ascertain the University’s ranking including; Times Higher Education World University Rankings, and Academic Ranking of World Universities (ARWU). In total Australia has 15 Universities ranked I the top 200 in the world (Source: QS World Rankings).

QS World University Rankings 2024

1. University of Melbourne – 14
2. University of New South Wales (UNSW) =19
3. University of Sydney =19
4. Australian National University (ANU) – 34
5. Monash University – 42
6. University of Queensland – 43
7. University of Western Australia (UWA) – 72
8. University of Adelaide – 89
9. University of Technology Sydney (UTS) – 90

Additionally, Australia is one of the premier locations to learn English. There are many exceptional language schools that have great facilities and world class teachers.

The Vocational Education and Training (VET) sector also offers high quality training for students who wish to be involved in practical vocations including: construction, mechanic, child care, enrolled nursing, aged care, introductory business courses etc. The largest VET training in Australia is TAFE (Technical And Further Education) check out TAFE Queensland; TAFE Victoria; TAFE New South Wales

2. English speaking country

“We get to speak English” is the answer almost every student gives me when I ask them why they chose to study in Australia. It is an obvious reason! Being able to practice and hopefully perfect your English whilst you live in Australia allows many students to gain better paying jobs when they return to their country.

3. Work Opportunities

Australia is one of the few countries that allows international students to work while they study. Currently, students can work up to 24 hours per week. This is a major reason why so many students choose to study in Australia, particularly those who come from South America and need to work to pay for their education.

The current minimum pay rate for a worker in Australia at the moment is $23.23 per hour for permanent employees and $29.04 for casual workers.

4. A friend or family member who lives in Australia or studied here before.

My friend lives here, my family member lives here, my friend studied here. These are also a very common reasons for choosing to study in Australia. I have lived in various countries around the world and I understand how much easier it is when you have friends or family to help you.

5. Lifestyle

Australia has an awesome, laidback lifestyle. Going to the beach, having a BBQ, clubbing and just hanging out with friends. International students adapt very quickly to life in Australia and many choose to live here permanently. The state of Queensland is particularly attractive to those who like warmer climates as they can enjoy the weather and visit the stunning beautiful beaches all year.

6. Weather

Overwhelmingly students, particularly form South America, tell me they chose Australia Canada and New Zealand because of the weather. Australia has diverse weather patterns depending on which part of Australia you are in. Cairns is hot all year round, Brisbane is warm in winter and hot in summer whilst Melbourne is cold in winter and hot in summer. A really useful Webpage and App is BOM (Bureau of Meteorology). It provides information about the temperatures in Australia.

The state of Queensland is particularly attractive to those who like warmer climates as they can enjoy the weather and visit the stunning beautiful beaches all year.

7. Similar time zone

Many students from South East Asia, particularly Japan, China, South Korea, Taiwan, Thailand, Philippines etc. say it was a factor when choosing Australia. They can talk with their family and friends in the same time zone or only a few hours difference. Knowing that friend or parents are awake and free to chat at the same time as you is encouraging.

8. Travel

“I want to travel in Australia.” Many students who are studying in a language school do so because they want to gain enough English so they can travel all over Australia. I have had students tell me about all the towns and cities they have been to many of which I have never been to. I am a little jealous because I love travelling too.

Start your educational journey to Australia

Once you have made the decision to study in Australia you will need to choose an educational agent that will help you through the process. Click here to find an amazing education agent that will provide you with extra services not just the basic visa processing.

Extra services exceptional Education Consultants should provide

Throughout my teaching career, I’ve spoken to countless students who believed they had a good education agent until they compared their agent’s services with others. All education agents are friendly, that’s their job, but a good education agent should offer more than just the minimum service and a smile.

Agents can earn a significant commission, usually ranging from 10% to 40% of the school fees you pay to the education provider (depending on the type of course you study) so you should be receiving a high level of service from your education agent for the money they receive from the school or university.

Besides guiding you through the visa application process, which involves multiple steps, a reputable education agent should offer support throughout your entire educational journey.

Minimum Services Offered

These are the minimum services an Education Agent should provide in Australia:

1. Selecting a country and city to study in
2. Deciding on a course to study: University; V.E.T.; General English; IELTS; Cambridge etc.
3. Choosing a high quality education provider (not the one that provides the highest commission to the agent)
4. Completing the application process to obtain a ‘Confirmation of Enrolment (COE)’ from the education provider
5. Guidance writing a ‘Genuine Temporary Entrant (GTE)’ statement
6. Organising compulsory Medical Insurance
7. Provide information on any medical tests or vaccinations that you may require

Extra Services Offered

What extra services does a good Education Agent offer?

What distinguishes a good education agent from the average are the additional services they offer. Doing more than the minimum and offering a personalised service is what should be expected. A good education agent should know all about the country you’re planning to study in.

They should know things like the culture; how the education system works; immigration rules; visa application process; which universities, language schools or VET colleges are popular and what kinds of programs they offer; if you can work while studying, and other things you need to follow to study abroad legally.

Besides having an extensive knowledge of the country which they can share with you, good education agents should offer some, or all of the following extra services (see below for details):

• Airport Pickup and Arrival Assistance
• Accommodation Support
• Pre-Departure Orientation
• Tax File Number (TFN)
• SIM card for your mobile phone
• Personal resume
• Bank account
• Ongoing help
• Social Outings

Airport Pickup and Arrival Assistance:

Some agents may provide airport pickup services or help students arrange transportation to their accommodation upon arrival in Australia. This initial assistance can help ease the transition for international students.

Accommodation Support:

Agents can assist students in finding suitable accommodation options in Australia, such as student accommodation, homestays (homestay; homestaynetwork ), share houses (Flatemates.com.au; flatmatefinders), or private rentals. They should help students understand their choices and provide advice on accommodation arrangements.

Pre-Departure Orientation:

It’s important for students to be well-prepared before they leave for Australia. Education agents should offer pre-departure guidance, including information on what to pack, how to manage finances, and how to adapt to the Australian culture and environment.

Here’s a list of items that some students choose to buy in Australia and not bring with them to save space in their bags:

• Pillow
• Power adaptor
• Sheets
• Towel
• Toiletries (soap, shampoo, toothpaste etc.)
• Sunscreen
• Hat
• Insect repellent

Tax File Number (TFN)

If you want to work in Australia, you must have a TFN. It is the number that your employer uses to pay your tax to the government. A good agent will explain this to you and a good agent will help you apply for one. Here is the link to the Australian Tax Office (ATO) explaining how to get a TFN in Australia.

Writing a resume

A personal, high quality resume is very important. Some agents will provide you with a very poor quality proforma resume that has been copied many times.

Getting a SIM card for your mobile phone

Several agencies provide their international students with SIM cards or eSIM before they arrive in Australia. Once you have left the airport the airport you can activate the SIM card. Others take their students to buy a SIM as part of their orientation training.

Open a bank account

You have the choice to open an Australian bank account before you come to Australia or when you arrive. A good agency will offer you the choice of opening the bank account in your home country. Australia has four major banks Commonwealth, Westpac, National, ANZ. They all offer the same services and one is not better than the other as most stunts use internet banking and never go into a physical bank building.

Emergency Assistance:

In case of emergencies, such as medical issues, visa problems, or other unforeseen challenges, education agents should be a reliable point of contact for students, providing guidance and assistance.

Ongoing Help:

A good education agent doesn’t just disappear after helping you get started. They’re there to provide you with support all the way through your studies. They can help you understand things like part-time jobs, adapting to a new culture, and finding solutions to any issues you might face.

Social Outings

Some agencies organise social events so that international students who have recently arrived in the city can meet other international students, usually from your own culture.

My recommended Australian Education Agents

If you are looking for a good education agent in Australia check out my recommended agents in Brisbane, Melbourne, and Sydney.

Discover the services offered by each education agent in Brisbane, Melbourne and Sydney.

Check out the Education Agent’s Google and Facebook review scores in Brisbane, Melbourne, and Sydney.

Useful government websites for international students

If you want the most up-to-date information, always double-check government websites, as rules and regulations might change. Here are some links to some Government Websites to get the most current information.

• Study in Australia Official Website: https://www.studyaustralia.gov.au/
• Study Queensland – Resources for International Students: https://www.studyqueensland.qld.gov.au/
• Study NSW – Information for International Students: https://www.study.nsw.gov.au/
• Study Victoria – Resources for International Students: https://www.studymelbourne.vic.gov.au/