NATECLA Scotland has added its support to an open letter in response to the recent targeting of ESOL classes by far-right protesters in various parts of Scotland. The letter was developed by Stand Up to Racism Scotland, and is also supported by the Educational Institute of Scotland (EIS), NASUWT Scotland, UCU Scotland, STUC Black Workers' Committee, STUC Women's Committee and Educators for Peace.

NATECLA is delighted to support Ruth Hayman Trust, our nominated charity, in their mission to transform lives through education. From noon on 2 December to 9 December, the Ruth Hayman Trust will be taking part in the Big Give 2025 campaign, where every donation made will be match funded

NATECLA seeks applications for the next editor of its journal Language Issues for the three year period from January 2026 to December 2028.

Language Issues is the part peer-reviewed journal for NATECLA, read by ESOL and community language professionals in the UK and beyond. There are two editions a year, summer (June) and winter (December).

The editor is supported by the editorial board and the NATECLA National Centre.

NATECLA is delighted to support the Association of Colleges (AoC) Adult Learning Pays campaign to highlight the need for an adult education system that is both valued and properly funded by policy members and the wider public.

Dear members ,

Welcome to our November 2025 Update.

We hope you all had a fantastic half term and a smooth start to your lessons!

We still have three webinars left this term, starting with Viorica Lucuta’sUnlock Learning: AI Escape Activities for Engaged Learners, don’t miss this interactive session! Save your space here.

We’re also delighted to announce the plans for a new CELTA to ESOL Bridging course - helping newly qualified English language teachers or those with a background in teaching English overseas (EFL) and strong stepping stone into ESOL teaching. Read our exciting course proposal and complete the questionnaire on your thoughts below.

Nerissa Roberts, from Oldham College, wins national Excellence in Teaching Award.

Remembering John Sutter: inspiring educator, mentor, and ESOL advocate, whose warmth, humour, and generosity touched us all.

Dear members ,

Welcome to our October 2025 Update.

We have a busy and exciting autumn ahead, with new branch conferences, online forums, and sector news. You can find all the details below.

We are also thrilled to announce the dates for the NATECLA Annual Conference 2026! The event will take place on 26–27 June 2026 at Conference Aston. Save the date!

Read the whole update to find out about events, news and opportunities from the ESOL sector.

Commenting on the recent comments by Conservative Shadow Justice Secretary Robert Jenrick, NATECLA Co-Chairs Naeema Hann and Paul Sceeny said:

“Even at a time when mainstream politicians are increasingly co-opting the language of the far-right, it is still shocking to hear a member of the Shadow Cabinet member openly complain about not seeing “another white face” in a part of Birmingham that's known for its ethnic and cultural diversity.

NATECLA deplores the ongoing hostile climate and scapegoating of refugees, people seeking asylum and others who have made their home here.

Dear members

Welcome to our September 2025 Update.

As we step into a new academic year, we are delighted to welcome everyone back after what we hope was a wonderful summer. We have plenty to share with you this month, including some exciting events and sector news.

First, our Autumn webinar programme is now live, offering opportunities to continue developing your practice and connect with colleagues online.

Read the whole update to find out about events, news and opportunities from the ESOL sector.

Do you work in ESOL in a UK college? Whether you've made a small change or led a major development, we want to hear from you! Applications are now open for the Beacon Award for Excellence in ESOL, sponsored by The Bell Foundation and run by the Association of Colleges. It's a chance to celebrate your work, share your impact, and raise the profile of ESOL.

Dear members ,

Welcome to our Monthly Update March 2025.

February was a fantastic month for NATECLA, with the Midlands Conference proving to be a huge success—thank you to all who took part! As we move into March, we’re wrapping up our Winter Webinar Series, sharing exciting updates on the Annual Conference 2025, and bringing you plenty of CPD and networking opportunities.

Read on for key dates, event highlights, and ways to get involved!

We are currently seeking a suitably experienced individual to support NATECLA National Centre in a number of areas of our work. We envisage these projects being carried out at different points of the year.

Dear members ,

Welcome to our Monthly Update March 2025.

February was a fantastic month for NATECLA, with the Midlands Conference proving to be a huge success—thank you to all who took part! As we move into March, we’re wrapping up our Winter Webinar Series, sharing exciting updates on the Annual Conference 2025, and bringing you plenty of CPD and networking opportunities.

Read on for key dates, event highlights, and ways to get involved!

Commenting on the UK Government’s Immigration White Paper and ‘Island of Strangers’ rhetoric that accompanied its launch, NATECLA Co-Chair Paul Sceeny said:

“Whilst the White Paper is unambiguous about wanting to reduce net immigration and tighten English language conditionality, it includes only one vague statement about ‘[making] it easier for those already in the UK ... to access classes for English language lessons’.

NATECLA has always championed inclusive ESOL and Community Languages provision, and especially the need for teaching, learning and assessment materials that reflect learners’ diverse realities whilst offering insights into differing life experiences and perspectives.

Dear members ,

Welcome to our Monthly Update March 2025.

February was a fantastic month for NATECLA, with the Midlands Conference proving to be a huge success—thank you to all who took part! As we move into March, we’re wrapping up our Winter Webinar Series, sharing exciting updates on the Annual Conference 2025, and bringing you plenty of CPD and networking opportunities.

Read on for key dates, event highlights, and ways to get involved!

Dear members ,

Welcome to our Monthly Update March 2025.

February was a fantastic month for NATECLA, with the Midlands Conference proving to be a huge success—thank you to all who took part! As we move into March, we’re wrapping up our Winter Webinar Series, sharing exciting updates on the Annual Conference 2025, and bringing you plenty of CPD and networking opportunities.

Read on for key dates, event highlights, and ways to get involved!

After a break due to the pandemic, NATECLA Midlands was delighted to host its first face-to-face Winter Conference It's ALL about the learner on 28th February 2025. The event brought together up to 100 ESOL professionals for a day of insightful workshops, networking, and resource-sharing.