Learning grammar is more challenging than having an everyday conversation in English. But you can easily make progress with a few tips and by following some techniques. Read our guide for useful tips written by our teachers.
Month: August 2020
17 Exciting Water Sports to Experience in Malta and Gozo
If you’re a water sports lover, you’re in for a treat. Malta is renowned for its clear waters and perfect weather conditions that make it an ideal destination for water sports enthusiasts of all ages. In this blog, we’ll explore the top water sports activities in Malta and why they should be on your travel bucket list. So, sit back, relax, and get ready to dive into the thrilling world of water sports in Malta!
How to Choose the Best English School in Malta
Thanks to its beautiful landscapes, rich culture and British influence, Malta has become a popular destination for those who want to learn English. However, with numerous schools on the islands, choosing the best English language school for your needs can be challenging. This guide provides a roadmap by highlighting ten crucial factors to consider when selecting the best English language school in Malta.
Guide to Unforgettable Family Holiday in Malta and Gozo
Malta is a family-friendly destination, with plenty to offer for young and old. It’s safe and has a naturally warm climate with plenty of beaches and several tourist attractions and experiences for the whole family. Additionally, Malta is an excellent destination for those who want to improve their English language skills. With various English language courses available for all levels, Malta is a great place to learn and practice your English in a fun and relaxed environment.
Advantages of Studying at Accredited English Schools in Malta
Learning at accredited English schools in Malta
With so many possibilities for English schools, choosing the best one for your study-trip can be difficult. The best way to distinguish between the options is to ensure you choose an accredited English school in Malta.
Why should I study at accredited English schools in Malta?
In the ESL industry there are a number of quality assurance organizations whose job is to guarantee that English language schools in Malta provide a good standard of education in a decent learning environment. The process is based on various inspections and requirements that ensure students can trust accredited English schools in Malta and Gozo. That means that you focus on your studies and have trust in your school. What are the advantages of choosing an accredited English School in Malta and Gozo?
1. Quality of courses and teachers
You can expect a high standard of lessons and course materials from your English school in Malta. That’s especially important for exam preparation courses, business English or English for specific purposes. Additionally, they only hire qualified teachers, usually with years of experience in an ESL classroom. Teachers are regularly observed must attend continuous teacher-training workshops and seminars.
2. Value of certificate
There are plenty of schools who print out certificates of attendance – but are they actually valuable? The value of a certificate is based on the English school’s accreditation. Choosing a school which is both locally and internationally accredited enhances the value of your certificate. Having prestigious and renowned accreditation on your certificate makes it widely accepted for job applications and opens up more options for you.
3. Obtaining a study Visa
Whether or not your VISA application is approved can depend entirely on the type of English school in Malta you chose. The school’s reputation is a highly influential factor in visa applications. The schools that are highly accredited and undergo various licensing screening are more likely to have student visas approved. The reason is that procedures taken by the school are respected by the visa unit.
4. Student satisfaction
In order to get accredited, the schools usually have to have an effective feedback system in place that ensures any complaints are dealt with as required. When you choose an accredited school, you know that you’re in good hands.
5. Scholarship recognition
If you are applying for an English course using a scholarship such as Erasmus, Bildungsurlaub, or EU schemes, it is vital to ensure that the school you are using is highly accredited. Schools which are not up to standard will not pass the screening process required to providing funding for such scholarships.
BELS Accreditation
BELS Schools are accredited by the following organisations: IALC, FELTOM, ALTO, Bindungsurlaub, Arbitur. The schools are licensed by the ELT Council, Malta Tourism Authority.
For information on the types of courses offered at BELS English schools in Malta and Gozo, contact us at [email protected].
How to Learn English Online: 8 Tips for Success
Whether you’re taking a language course in school or just interested in learning on your own, English is a global language that can open up a world of opportunities for you, both personally and professionally. In this blog, we’ll give you a step-by-step guide to help you learn English online effectively.
Exploring the Town of Kercem in Gozo
Looking for Things to do in Gozo? Add these to your Bucket List!
If you’re looking for a place to unwind in nature while staying in Gozo, Kerċem is the place for you. Gozo in general is the more laid-back, more traditional and natural part of Malta.
Located just south-west of Victoria, Gozo’s capital, Kerċem is a small village of less than 2,000 people set in one of the most picturesque parts of Gozo, between Lunzjata Valley and three green hills, and stretching as far as Xlendi cliffs.
Kerċem offers easy access to some of Gozo’s best country walks and cycling, and plenty of things to do within walking distance or a short bus ride. Local cultural activities include the village festa, held in July, and a popular, traditional fair, held in April-May near the pond at L-Għadira ta’ Sarraflu.
These are just some of our favourite things to do in Kerċem and around:
1. Relish in nature at Lunzjata Valley, Kerċem
This lush valley in Kerċem is one of the most picturesque in Gozo. It is one of the few places on the island that has a continuous supply of water for the surrounding agriculture, while aqueducts line the valley where you can enjoy a walk to the sound of trickling water.
2. Explore Għar Ilma and Il-Mixta caves, Kerċem
Two significant caves lie on the outskirts of Santa Lucija, a nearby hamlet where the inhabitants resist urbanisation. Għar Ilma was a valuable source of water for the entire area. Il-Mixta cave is known to have been inhabited by troglodytes, and is not to be confused with Tal-Mixta, a cave which overlooks the reddish sands of Ramla Bay.
3. Embrace history at the Citadel and Victoria
The capital Victoria, locally known as ir-Rabat, lies outside the old city fortress known as the Citadel. Explore the Citadel’s rich history and enjoy stunning views of the whole island. Head out to explore Victoria’s meandering streets. Visit the market. Browse the shops selling traditional Maltese handicrafts. Enjoy the cafés. Walk around Villa Rundle Gardens. Just relish the unique slower-paced atmosphere of Gozo’s capital.
4. Get in the picture at Xlendi Bay, Munxar
Restaurants and small hotels line the shore, where sand gives way to clear water and colourful fishing boats harboured in the safety of the rocky cove. A short walk, either way of the beach, leads you to further curiosities to explore in one Gozo’s most picturesque spots.
5. Marvel at the coast at Ras il-Wardija, San Lawrenz
The western cliffs overlooking Xlendi and along Ras il-Wardija offer some of the most stunning coastal views imaginable. At Ras il-Wardija, one will stumble upon a Punic Sanctuary (3000 BC). This perfect sunset spot has a view of sheer cliffs dropping thirty metres into the sea and Dwejra in the distance.
6. Get curious about rocks at Dwejra, San Lawrenz
Dwejra stands out for its geological features. It was home to the Azure Window, a majestic natural rock formation; the Blue Hole and Coral Cave, top dive sites in the world; the Fungus Rock, where a unique medicinal fungus grew and nowhere else; while the perfect roundness of the Inland Sea, and of Dwejra Bay on the other side, is a result of whirlpools of torrential waters during the Ice Age.
7. Indulge in creativity at Ta’ Dbiegi Crafts Village, Għarb
Visit the crafts village in the nearby village of Għarb, where you can learn about how traditional handicrafts are made. Take home some original, hand-made, local souvenirs: pottery, Gozo lace, blown glass and leather items are available.
8. Immerse yourself in tradition at The Folklore Museum, Għarb
The folklore museum in the village square of Għarb displays the trades and crafts formerly prevalent in the Maltese islands, with tools and equipment exhibited together as workshops.
9. Witness miracles at Ta’ Pinu Church, Għarb
The Basilica of Ta’ Pinu stands on the spot where, in 1883, a local woman reputedly heard the voice of the Virgin. This church is a special pilgrimage place for locals who come to ask for a boon, and inside are many objects to remind of the miracles that happened after such prayer.
10. Go back in time at L-Għajn tal-Ħasselin, Fontana
L-Għajn tal-Ħasselin is literally “the washers’ spring.” The 16th century arched communal wash-house is made of stone, and offered people shelter from the elements during this mundane chore. Wash houses like this were commonly built near springs.
11. Connect with the elements at Wied l-Għasri, Żebbuġ
Enjoy a walk through this beautiful valley that winds its way between Żebbuġ and Ġordan Hill, which is famous for its lighthouse. At the little inlet wedged between impressive cliffs, you can also swim, snorkel and dive in underwater caves.
12. Learn English at BELS Gozo
Kercem is also the home to our lovely BELS Gozo school. You can develop your English and meet new people in a traditional farmhouse that has been converted into a modern school for adults.
Are you looking for things to do in Gozo? Write to us at [email protected] to learn about our courses and start planning your trip.
5 Ways to Further your Career with Business English Lessons
Struggling at work because of your English skills? Being fluent in English is essential for working in an international environment. In this article, we’ll explain how business English courses differ from general English courses and why they could be the next step to advance your career.
How to Improve English Listening Skills
Do you ever find yourself having trouble following conversations or movies in English? It can be tough, but don’t worry, you’re not alone. We’ve got your back! In this blog, our academic director has put together a comprehensive step-by-step guide to help you improve your English listening skills.
