Case study: Faisa

Faisa, a mother of two, arrived in the UK from Somalia in 2020 with limited English language skills. Her daily life presented numerous challenges, from navigating essential services to understanding local community resources. Faisa’s primary goal was to improve her English to better support her family, integrate into the local community, and access employment opportunities. However, she faced significant barriers, including a lack of confidence when communicating in English, limited knowledge of British culture and services, difficulty understanding public systems such as healthcare, schooling, and housing, and feelings of isolation within her local community due to language barriers.

To address these challenges, Faisa enrolled in the "ESOL for My Community" course, followed by the “Bridging Language and Opportunities” course with Infinite Skills. These programs were designed to empower learners by focusing on practical English skills related to everyday life, enabling them to engage with local services, build confidence, and enhance employment prospects. The courses combined language development, cultural awareness, and community engagement activities to create a holistic learning experience. Faisa received personalised support through one-on-one sessions with a tutor, which addressed her specific learning needs. The courses also provided cultural sensitivity training to help her understand UK culture, community resources, and local norms. Confidence-building activities, such as role-plays and group discussions, were integrated into the program to encourage learners to practice their English in a supportive environment. Additionally, Faisa was given opportunities to volunteer and participate in community events, which further enhanced her language skills and social integration.

Since enrolling in the courses, Faisa has made significant progress in both her language skills and overall confidence. She is now able to handle everyday conversations with ease, including interactions at the doctor’s office, with teachers at her children’s school, and in local shops. Her increased confidence has allowed her to communicate effectively with professionals and peers, and she has become an active participant in local community groups. Faisa has also successfully navigated housing and health services independently, no longer needing to rely on others for translation. She has engaged with local job support services, improving her employment prospects. Through the course’s community engagement activities, Faisa has expanded her network and feels more connected to her new home. Her improved language skills have also enabled her to better support her children’s schooling, assisting them with homework and engaging more effectively with their teachers.

Reflecting on her journey, Faisa shared, "Before the course, I was afraid to speak English, even in small situations. Now, I feel more confident talking to doctors, teachers, and even my neighbours. I can better help my children with school and understand everything in my new home country. These courses have helped me improve my English.” Faisa’s story highlights the transformative impact of the "ESOL for My Community" and “Bridging Language and Opportunities” courses. Not only has she developed her language skills, but she has also gained the confidence to actively participate in her community and support her family. Her success is a testament to the power of tailored, learner-centred education in fostering social mobility and integration.

Infinite Skills 
Find out more about how you can join the learning programme by contacting Infinite Skills via their website (Infinite Skills CiC | Community Education and Training).