Description of centre
ECHO - English Courses at Home Overseas: Family, Safety, Individuals and Results
What we look like:
1. Family
In 1988, Alex’s parents, Charles and Estrid, started sharing their family home with small number of students learning English in an immersive environment. 30 years later, Alex, Carmen, their children and the teachers still live together with small groups of students as a ‘big family’, sharing the house, meals, free time, activities and excursions. Lessons take place in the rooms of the house and the garden - no formal classrooms!
Long-lasting relationships with our students and their families, sometimes over decades: students, their brothers, sisters, cousins, friends, and, more recently, sons and daughters come back year after year. Nearly all our students come on direct recommendation.
2. Safety
The Echo country house and garden is situated in a safe and peaceful area, in the South Downs National Park, just outside the historic castle town of Arundel, within easy reach of other great destinations including London, Brighton, Portsmouth, Chichester...
Students are under the careful supervision of Alex, Carmen and the teachers.
Our teachers not only teach but also spend time with the students every day: we work together to help everyone feel comfortable, happy and protected.
Our very low numbers, home atmosphere and ‘living under one roof’ experience mean students know they can talk to us if they are unhappy or worried about something.
3. Individuals
No group bookings – individuals only
Max. 25 students at the school
Max. 8 students per class
2 to 4 students share en-suite rooms
Junior, Senior and Intensive courses
A clear picture of each student’s level and goals: our family atmosphere promotes great communication – student-to-student, student-to-teacher and teacher-to-teacher; in class, around the house, on excursions and activities
4. Results
Low numbers, intensive programmes and high levels of supervision promote our strict English Only rule: English all day, every day!
Students can relax, experiment, express themselves and learn in a safe and accepting environment.
Low numbers, student feedback, teachers’ meetings and weekly written evaluations help us adapt quickly and effectively to each student’s progress and goals.
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