By Singapore Teaching Centre, British Council

01 October 2024 - 09:00

Student Testimonial - Benedict

Languages are a vital medium of communication that opens doors to global connections. At the British Council, we help kids and teens to master English through our courses to enhance their linguistic proficiency, foster global empathy, and understanding. In this blog, we’ll explore how learning English can help to nurture these skills. Discover how the language serves as a tool for future readiness, equipping students to navigate, engage, and empathise with global issues and cultures. 

21st century skills through English learning

English education is a gateway to developing 21st century skills. These are highly valuable skill sets such as critical thinking, creativity, collaboration, and communication—all of which have been listed as the most important soft skills in 2024, essential for students to form global connections and thrive in our ever-evolving world. 

As competition for university places and jobs rises, these skills help students to stand out in the real world. That’s why our English courses for kids and teens are designed to give learners a head start. Our courses equip them with vital competencies while enhancing fundamental English skills such as speaking, reading, writing, and listening to ensure they are well-prepared to thrive wherever their future takes them.

Explore our English courses for kids and teens

The British Council’s approach to nurturing future-ready students 

We believe that readiness for the future encompasses a range of skills and qualities. Students should be able to think critically and logically about complex situations to demonstrate independent thinking, and be able to reflect on global issues. Effective communication in diverse situations is also important, as is the capacity to empathise with people from different backgrounds. Additionally, resilience in the face of challenges is key, as well as the skills needed to take up leadership positions. 

Here’s how our English courses help nurture these qualities: 

1. Boosting learner confidence

Failure is a natural part of the learning process. We understand that students may not always achieve the grades or results they desire, which can reduce their trust in themselves. Our English courses are designed to counteract inconfidence by equipping learners with the skills needed to be effective communicators. This, in turn, helps to boost student confidence, enabling them to socialise and communicate with peers from a young age. 

Teachers also create a supportive environment where students feel encouraged to push past their insecurities and actively participate in class. This allows resilience to thrive and provides students with the opportunity to learn from their mistakes and grow. By establishing a nurturing environment, we help students achieve their full potential and develop the confidence to navigate challenges both inside and outside the classroom. 

What Our Students Say About Our English Courses for Kids and Teens

Benedict, Secondary 4, Napier Road Centre

'The British Council has empowered me to effectively express my thoughts, resulting in various benefits. This newfound ability has improved my performance in interviews, enhanced my oral and listening comprehension skills, and elevated my overall comprehension skills. 

Additionally, the practical skills taught by the British Council has enabled me to work more efficiently, accomplishing tasks in a shorter time frame. It has also expanded my social circle and honed my interpersonal skills, positioning me for success in any future job I pursue.'

2. Cultivating empathy and understanding

Our English courses create a multicultural environment where students from diverse backgrounds can engage with peers from different cultures. We use literature and real-world materials to challenge students to think critically about themes and characters. These materials introduce different viewpoints and encourage open conversations to help students embrace diverse perspectives.

Our classrooms are also safe spaces for students’ curiosity, helping them learn English while better understanding different people, places, and experiences. Through various exercises, we promote self-awareness by helping students understand themselves and their relationship with the world around them. This approach ultimately fosters meaningful global connections and a deep understanding of global issues. 

Explore our English courses for kids and teens

3. Developing critical thinking and problem-solving skills 

The ability to think logically and critically is an essential skill in our fast-moving world. When solving problems, students need to know how to ask the right questions to get to the bottom of a problem. 

Our English courses immerse students in real-world English, exposing them to articles, videos, news, podcasts, and other materials to help them learn English while developing a global mindset. By addressing real-world issues, we guide students to improve critical thinking, ensuring they possess the skills to adapt and thrive in every stage of life.  Students also learn best when they enjoy the process. This is why our interactive classes promote active engagement and encourage students to be hands-on and creative when exploring new ways to solve problems. 

Help your child foster global connections through English 

With the world rapidly changing everyday, it is important to equip young individuals with the right skills and mindset for the future. Help your child to become global citizens who are empathetic, culturally aware, and ready to tackle the challenges of tomorrow. 

Explore our English courses for kids and teens and empower your child to connect, understand, and thrive in a diverse and interconnected world.