IELTS

Major Subject

12 hours per week

Students select one Major and one Minor subject per week

Overview

Prepare for IELTS (International English Language Testing System), the world's most recognised English language proficiency test for higher education.

Designed by our experienced academic team, this intensive summer programme is tailored for 15-17-year-old international students planning to study at English-speaking universities.

By the end of the course, you'll have mastered the skills and techniques needed for the exam.

Students taking the intensive 2-week IELTS Exam Preparation Major can choose to take the  IELTS Academic Paper at a certified exam centre in London (optional, at extra cost, subject to availability).

Students looking at noticeboard about IELTS
IELTS Group
IELTS Presentation
Collaborative Research
IELTS Feedback
Sample Topics

Each aspect of the IELTS exam will be thoroughly covered, helping you develop the techniques required for success.

 

Writing Paper

Learn how to structure your writing effectively. Craft clear thesis statements, build coherent paragraphs, and understand how to describe data, trends, and academic topics. Build your knowledge of cohesive language to improve clarity and depth of writing.

Reading Paper

Develop techniques like skimming, scanning, and keyword identification to manage exam time efficiently and answer questions based on four academic texts.

Listening Paper

Gain experience with a variety of audio materials - conversations, lectures, and discussions - so you can accurately interpret and respond to spoken English in different contexts. Learn about useful tips such as predicting answers and time management.

Speaking Paper

Expand your range of vocabulary, improve fluency, and confidently communicate your ideas on diverse topics, demonstrating your speaking proficiency under exam conditions. Build your knowledge of connecting phrases to extend and expand speaking answers.

Skills & Outcomes

This programme will equip you with essential skills for achieving success in the IELTS exam:

  • Enhance core skills, including grammar, vocabulary, and pronunciation for written and spoken communication.
  • Take weekly mock tests under exam conditions and receive detailed feedback 
  • Improve your listening skills as you explore a wide range of audio materials.
  • Write well-organised, persuasive responses with clear structure and coherence.
  • Understand what IELTS examiners expect and express your ideas with clarity and confidence.
  • Countless opportunities to improve your pronunciation and intonation as you study alongside English teenagers (our English Student Hosts)
Suitable For

The IELTS Major is suitable if you:

  • Have at least an Upper Intermediate (B2) level of English 
  • Plan to apply to an English-speaking university
  • Are a new student or are returning to Winchester and want a new challenge
  • Need to improve your academic English skills e.g. essay writing, reading skills, note-taking
Assessment (optional)

Sit the IELTS exam in London - each year students score impressive results!

Take the IELTS exam on Thursday 16 July or Thursday 30 July 2026, subject to availability and at an extra cost (exam fees £260 payable to the exam centre, plus travel expenses approx. £50).

Students will be accompanied to/from the exam by our staff

Activity Programme

Wide range of daily activities

Pre-University

Full details

Minors

Choose one each week