Q. Why should I choose The British Institute of Florence?
A. Qualified mother tongue English teachers
A wide range of courses at all levels for both adults and young learners
The largest library of books in English in Italy
The possibility of winning an award to study in the UK
A rich programme of films and cultural events in English
Help in finding language courses in England
Multimedia and study centre
Possibility of borrowing books, CDs, Videos and DVDs
A chance to meet mother tongue English students
Q. How do I decide what course to take?
A. This will depend on your needs: general, business, conversation, exam, etc. When you come to the Institute and do your placement test, staff will be on hand to give you advice
Q. How do I know what my level is?
A.The entry placement test is designed to determine your level of English and which course is appropriate for you. We require all new students, whether they are adult or young learners, to take a placement test.
Q. How many students are there in a class?
A.We have a maximum of 12 students in any class.
Q. If I miss a lesson, can I make it up?
A.No, but your teacher will help you to catch up.
Q. Can I change class or level?
A.Yes. If you are not comfortable with your class for any reason you may change on the recommendation of the teacher in consultation with the English language Coordinator.
Q. How many times a week will I need to attend class?
A.Most of our courses run twice a week, either Mondays and Wednesdays or Tuesdays and Thursdays. It is also possible to attend one lesson a week on a Saturday morning. Full details of class times can be obtained from our reception.
Q. Will I be required to do homework between classes?
A.Homework is an integral part of your course and you will be expected to complete your homework after each class. How much time you will need to spend will depend on your level - the higher the level the more time you will need to devote to your English studies.
Q. Do I need to remain at the school while my child is in class?
A.We ask parents to escort children up to the age of 11 to the reception desk before class and to collect them there afterwards. There is no need to remain at the school during the lesson.
Q. How will I be kept informed of my child's progress?
A.There are three official occasions, one each term when you will be invited to come in and talk to the teacher of the class about your child's progress. During these meetings you will be given a progress report for your child. At the end of the course your child will sit an exam and, if they pass it, will be given a certificate stating the end of year grade.
Q. Do I need to take any exams at the British Institute?
A.Depending on your level you will be required to pass either British Institute exams or Cambridge ESOL exams before proceeding to the next level.
Q. What happens if I fail the British Institute internal exams?
A.In consultation with your teacher and the English coordinator we would offer you the opportunity to re-sit the exam and/or take a further placement test at the beginning of the following academic year.
Q. What external examinations can I take?
A.The British Institute is an authorised centre for Cambridge ESOL exams and therefore offers only Cambridge exams.
Q. Are Cambridge exams nationally and internationally recognised?
A.Yes, Cambridge ESOL examinations are widely known and recognised throughout the world and are a guarantee of competence at the level attained.
Q. Do I get course credits for English at my state school or university?
A.As the recognition of English credits from external sources such as The British Institute and/or Cambridge ESOL exams is at the discretion of individual institutions, you will need to ask the relevant authorities at your institution. The British Institute is happy to provide certificates of attendance and attainment on request.
Q. What other facilities are offered for me to improve my English?
A.Conversation exchanges are arranged with English speaking students studying at the British Institute on an informal and formal basis.
- Self-study centre
- VHS and DVD library
- Library
- Talking Pictures film appreciation
- Cultural programme
Q. Are course materials free?
A.If you re-enrol for a subsequent course before the deadline, yes. Otherwise, no. The Institute has an arrangement with a local bookshop to provide a 10% discount on course books for our students. Details are provided on enrolment.
Q. How can I pay?
A.There are various ways of paying for your course. See our terms and conditions for full information.