So what makes Northern Ireland an ideal destination for EFL learners? Firstly, as a new destination the local people are very interested in meeting foreign visitors, and always have time to stop and chat. The warmth of the people is also reflected in the quality of the homestay families that are offered. Secondly, it is a beautiful unspoiled country, which boasts many famous such as the Giant's Causeway, the breathtaking Carrick-a-rede rope bridge, the rugged North Antrim Coast and the splendid Mountains of Mourne 'which sweep down to the sea'. Tradition Irish music and dance are very strong, and there isn't a town or village where a good 'session' can't be found. It also had strong traditions of both Irish and British culture, making it quite a unique destination.
Belfast, the capital city, is a vibrant, lively city with a rich architectural and cultural heritage, whose docklands and cathedral quarter are currently undergoing regeneration for the Millennium. Like any major city, Belfast has wide choice of theatres, cinemas, restaurants, museums and art galleries. Londonderry or Derry, Northern Ireland's secondary city, is famous amongst other things for its walls, a symbol of the city's rich legacy of history and tradition. Derry is situated close to County Donegal, which is famous for its wild and open beauty. Northern Ireland is a country of contrasts - it has many areas of splendid isolation, but also towns and cities that boasts a young and lively atmosphere.
Northern Ireland has a well-educated population in which its two major universities play a leading part. The University of Ulster is a large modern university with a total student population of around 20,000. It is located on four campuses: Coleraine, on the north coast, Jordanstown to the north of Belfast, Belfast fast city centre and Magee College on Londonderry. CELT (the Centre for English Language Training) at the University offer international students the opportunity to learn English as one of the most attractive university settings in the United Kingdom CELT's main administrative centre is at the Coleraine campus, close to the scenic north coast and Giant's Causeway. CELT has excellent facilities, a fully equipped sports centre and 24-hour computer access. All students are also given their own email address. The cities of Belfast and Londonderry are within easy travelling distance by bus, car or train. Students are encourages to experience the culture and explore unspoilt countryside and beautiful beaches of the surrounding area. The courses on offer include: general and business english courses, english language activity programmes for teenagers, foundation/access courses, pre-sessionaal courses, teacher training and refresher courses. There is even an 'English in the Environment' course, which offers a unique opportunity to study the English language while experiencing the rich environment of coastal sand dunes, beaches, rocky shores, forests and mountains of Northern Ireland
When Queen's was established in 1845 on open land at the edge of Belfast, its founders could not have foreseen that, 150 years, the surrounding area would have become one of liveliest parts of Belfast, with excellent shops, cinemas, theatres, pubs and restaurants - all within easy walking distance. Those who visit Belfast and Queen's are always impressed by the friendliness of their welcome, the attractive, easygoing lifestyle with its distinctive culture, and the natural beauty of the Irish landscape which has survived virtually unspoiled and unpolluted in this modern age.
The TEFL centre at Queen's give students from all over the world the opportunity to attend courses designed to improve their English, while at the same time learning about Irish culture and enjoying the lively social life. All classes are based on the 'communicative approach' to language learning, which involves the active participation of all members of the class, and places strong emphasis on the development of fluent oral skills. The TEFL centre offers courses in General English and Pre-sessional English all year round. In the summer, these are supplemented by a wide variety of interesting courses including Irish Studies, an introduction to aspects of contemporary culture and politics, Business English, international marketing, English with golf (which gives access to some of the best golf courses in the world!), and language and methodology refresher courses for non-native teachers of English. The centre also gives students the opportunity to take the Cambridge IELTS examinations.
Students who take part in our courses have full access to the University's excellent sports centre, library and computer facilities, which include a new CAN 8 multi-media language laboratory. Excursions are organised to all of Northern Ireland's beauty spots as well as Dublin, which is only two hours away. Students also have the opportunity to learn Irish set dancing, which is one of the most popular social activities. The one thing that surprised visitors to Belfast is how normal life really is.
Both TEFL at Queen's University and CELT at the University of Ulster are accredited by the British Council.
