Certificate in English Language (Foundation)
Language & Literature
A course by
Ara Institute of Canterbury
Learn English for very familiar, everyday situations with this NZQA Level 1 foundation certificate, equipping learners to communicate with support in basic, familiar contexts for living and working in New Zealand.
In-person study
Face-to-face learning in a physical classroom setting
Madras Street Campus, Christchurch
It will take a total of 18 weeks
Core skills this course teaches

Communicate with support in everyday situations
Enable learners to communicate in very basic, familiar, and everyday situations with assistance.

Foundational English language skills
Develop entry-level skills across listening, reading, speaking, and writing in English.

Preparation for further study
Provide a pathway for progression to higher levels of English language study.
What You're Signing Up For
The New Zealand Certificate in English Language (Foundation) is designed for learners with little or no previous English language experience. It covers entry-level English skills in listening, reading, writing, and speaking for everyday, familiar situations. It provides foundational language knowledge to help learners participate in life and work in New Zealand. The programme is available both full time (18 weeks/6 months) and part time (36 weeks/12 months), and uses initial placement testing to ensure students are enrolled at the appropriate level. Graduates are prepared for further English language study and better integration into working or studying further in New Zealand.
Course Content
- English Listening 1A (EALL100): 15 credits
- English Reading 1A (EALR100): 15 credits
- English Speaking 1A (EALS100): 15 credits
- English Writing 1A (EALW100): 15 credits
What you need to know first
Open entry – no academic prerequisites
English language level assessed via placement test

What sort of industry will this job lead to
Education
Language Teaching
Settlement Support

Future employment opportunities might be
Improved ability to communicate in English for daily life and entry-level roles in New Zealand (from Level 3 upwards, possible use for workplace/professional qualifications)