Trainee Teacher course

‍

‍

‍

Here at SOL, we offer carefully tailored programmes for university students and trainee teachers who wish to develop their language skills, professional competence and intercultural awareness in a meaningful, real-world setting.

All our university courses run in the Autumn and Spring time, and are designed around the specific needs of each visiting group. Whether the focus is academic language development, professional communication, CLIL methodology, cultural studies or environmental themes, we work closely with partner institutions to create a programme that supports their objectives.

What makes studying with SOL distinctive is our use of North Devon as a living classroom. The region’s coastal landscapes, historic towns, local industries and community life provide rich opportunities for contextualised learning. Students expand and reinforce vocabulary while building fluency and confidence through authentic experiences. Language is not studied in isolation, but explored through themes such as social and cultural heritage, sustainability, ecology, arts, commerce and local history.

For trainee teachers and education students, our programmes can also include modelled methodology sessions and visits to local schools. Participants observe and analyse lesson demonstrations, explore CLIL-based approaches, and reflect on how environmental context can be used as a powerful learning tool. Sessions are adapted to the experience level of each group, from under graduate trainees to postgraduate students preparing for professional practice.

A typical course combines morning input sessions with afternoon excursions, allowing theory and practice to connect naturally. Participants usually stay with carefully selected host families, providing daily opportunities for meaningful conversation and genuine cultural immersion, experiencing a traditional english family and taking part in evening activities during the week.

SOL takes responsibility for airport transfers from London or other nearby airports, as well as transport and organisation of all excursions while in Devon, ensuring that group leaders and participants feel supported throughout their stay.

For over 30 years, SOL has welcomed students from Central and South-East Europe, building lasting partnerships and strengthening cultural ties with North Devon. Our university programmes continue this tradition, offering not just academic development, but an experience that is personal, professional and memorable.

‍

If you would like to find out more about or trainee teachers course, or would like to register your interest please email: sol@sol.org.uk

‍

‍