English for Upper Secondary Students
Teaching Approach
Engagement Through Interaction
Practical Language Focus
Confidence Building in a Supportive Environment
Discover, Communicate, Grow
Upper Secondary (14 - 19 years old)
Exam Support
Vocabulary & Grammar
English Language Skills
Essential Learning Aid
Proficiency with Cambridge
Proficiency with Cambridge is an engaging English language programme designed specifically for teenagers. It combines captivating, age-appropriate themes with comprehensive preparation for Cambridge English Qualifications.
Tailored for Teenagers in Upper Secondary Education
Designed specifically for teenagers, this course supports upper secondary students in developing English skills essential for academic and real-world success.
Comprehensive Exam Preparation
Provides targeted training for Cambridge English qualifications, including IELTS, ensuring students are well-prepared for internationally recognised exams.
Engaging Real-World Content
Offers meaningful topics, interactive activities, and digital tools that connect with teenage learners, inspiring confidence and fostering a lifelong interest in English.
Primary Coursebook
A standout feature of Cambridge Prepare (2nd edition) is its seamless integration of real-world content and exam-focused preparation. The course includes engaging video content, carefully crafted to resonate with teenagers, alongside updated materials for grammar, vocabulary, and reading lessons.
Language Levels (CEFR)
- Prepare Level 1 (A1)
- Prepare Level 2 (A2)
- Prepare Level 3 (A2)
- Prepare Level 4 (B1)
- Prepare Level 5 (B1)
- Prepare Level 6 (B2)
- Prepare Level 7 (B2)
- Prepare Level 8 (C1)
- Prepare Level 9 (C1)
Proficiency with Pearson
Proficiency with Pearson is a clearly structured English course designed for upper-secondary students, tackling everyday topics with language that is both relevant and meaningful to their lives.
The course brings grammar and vocabulary to life, enabling students to use English confidently in real-world contexts while developing skills in reading, writing, speaking, listening, and Use of English.
Motivation, Memory, and Meaning
Engaging topics, tasks, and texts connect to students’ life experiences and aspirations, ensuring emotional and intellectual engagement.
Unique Vocabulary Learning
The Word Store promotes active vocabulary recycling and retention, supported by grammar animations and interactive videos.
Skill Development
Frequent personalisation, a wide variety of exercises, and expanded speaking and listening content build communication skills from the start.
Exam Preparation
The course rigorously prepares students for higher education and English proficiency exams with extensive Use of English practice and carefully designed content.
Proficiency with Pearson is an ambitious, student-centred course that inspires learners to engage deeply with language, preparing them for academic success and confident communication in the real world.
Primary Coursebook
A standout feature is Pearson Focus’s (2nd edition) unique approach to vocabulary acquisition through the Word Store, which encourages reflection and active usage of new words. This second edition introduces authentic BBC video content, updated materials for reading and vocabulary lessons, and an expanded focus on Use of English, speaking, and listening exercises.
Language Levels (CEFR)
- Pearson Focus 1 (A2)
- Pearson Focus 2 (B1)
- Pearson Focus 3 (B1+)
- Pearson Focus 4 (B2)
- Pearson Focus 5 (C1)
Which Course Fits Your Needs: Cambridge or Pearson
Proficiency with Cambridge is the perfect choice for parents who want their teenagers to achieve Cambridge English Qualifications. It provides a clear and structured path, focusing on exam success through topics that teenagers find relatable and engaging. This course builds all four language skills (reading, writing, listening, and speaking).
Proficiency with Pearson is ideal for academically inclined teenagers and young adults aiming for university-level English and excelling in exams like IELTS or Cambridge English Qualifications. It develops critical thinking and advanced language skills through stimulating topics such as science and global challenges.
In summary, Proficiency with Cambridge focuses on exam success and Proficiency with Pearson is geared towards academic growth and critical thinking.
Exam Skills with Macmillan
Macmillan’s Ready for series is a legendary collection of exam preparation materials for Cambridge English Qualifications, offering comprehensive support for the B1 Preliminary, B2 First, C1 Advanced, and C2 Proficiency levels.
Designed to build confidence and mastery, the series is a trusted choice for learners aiming to excel in these globally recognised exams.
Primary Coursebooks
Ready for B1 Preliminary is tailored to learners taking the Cambridge B1 Preliminary for Schools exam. It combines practical grammar practice, engaging topics, and extra speaking activities to build fluency and exam confidence.
Ready for B2 First (4th Edition) is an updated and refined resource for students preparing for the Cambridge B2 First exam. It delivers in-depth training across all language skills—reading, writing, listening, and speaking—while providing systematic grammar and vocabulary practice.
Ready for C1 Advanced (4th Edition) continues the tradition of excellence with an updated approach to preparing students for the Cambridge C1 Advanced exam. It focuses on advanced language structures, critical thinking, and effective communication, equipping learners with the tools they need to succeed.
Ready for C2 Proficiency is the pinnacle of the series, offering rigorous preparation for the most challenging Cambridge English Qualification. It emphasises mastery of sophisticated grammar, vocabulary, and idiomatic expressions, ensuring students achieve fluency and precision.
Each level in the Ready for series is expertly crafted to provide learners with the strategies, skills, and confidence required to excel in their respective Cambridge exams, ensuring a pathway to academic and professional success.
Language Levels (CEFR)
- Ready for B1 Preliminary
- Ready for B2 First (4th Edition)
- Ready for C1 Advanced (4th Edition)
- Ready for C2 Proficiency
Course Preview & Sample Materials (B1)
Course Preview & Sample Materials (B2)
Course Preview & Sample Materials (C1)
Course Preview & Sample Materials (C2)
Exam Skills with Pearson
The course blends targeted practice with interactive and engaging content, making exam preparation both effective and enjoyable.
Students are guided through each section of the exam, learning how to tackle tasks with precision and efficiency while improving their overall language proficiency.
By focusing on key skills and providing opportunities for regular practice, the course builds not only exam readiness but also broader language competencies that support academic and real-world success.
Primary Coursebook
Pearson Formula is an excellent textbook because it combines flexible exam preparation with engaging content tailored to the needs of students aiming for Cambridge English Qualifications.
Its structured approach, featuring targeted practice and real-life exam tasks, ensures learners develop both language proficiency and confidence for success.
Language Levels (CEFR)
- Formula B1
- Formula B2
- Formula C1
Choosing the Right Exam Preparation Course
The key difference between the Macmillan Ready For series and Pearson Formula lies in their focus and approach to exam preparation:
Macmillan Ready For
This series takes a more comprehensive and linear approach, making it ideal for longer, structured courses that require in-depth preparation for Cambridge English Qualifications.
Known for its rigorous practice and detailed coverage of exam skills, this series offers extensive language development alongside exam techniques, making it a more traditional but thorough option for long-term study.
Pearson Formula
Designed with flexibility in mind, this course adapts to different lengths of study and exam levels, offering tailored materials for specific learner needs. It is particularly effective for courses with varying durations or customised preparation plans.
Incorporates engaging, modern themes and interactive tasks that appeal to students, with an emphasis on building exam strategies alongside general language skills.
Both courses are excellent, but the choice depends on whether you prioritise flexibility and adaptability (Pearson Formula) or comprehensive, in-depth preparation (Macmillan Ready For).
Disclaimer
There is no preparation programme that can guarantee success in exams, as achieving excellent results depends on consistent effort, practice, and a well-rounded approach to learning. Students and parents should view these exam support programmes as valuable supplementary preparation to enhance skills and build confidence alongside the main English courses that teenagers are already taking at school. These programmes provide targeted strategies and focused practice, complementing regular academic studies to maximise the chances of success.
IELTS Focus
IELTS Focus is a specialised course designed to help learners achieve their target band scores in the IELTS exam by building essential grammar and vocabulary skills.
With a structured approach, it provides the tools and strategies needed to excel in all sections of the test, including listening, reading, writing, and speaking.
Primary Coursebooks
- Cambridge IELTS Vocabulary Up to Band 6.0; written by Pauline Cullen
- Cambridge IELTS Vocabulary For Bands 6.5; written by Pauline Cullen
- Cambridge IELTS Grammar For Bands 6.5 and Above; written by Pauline Cullen and Diana Hopkins
Learners will focus on vocabulary relevant to IELTS topics, refine their grammar skills for complex structures, and practise applying both effectively in exam-specific contexts.
Language Levels (CEFR)
- IELTS Vocabulary Up to Band 6.0 (B2 – C1)
Special emphasis is placed on strategies for vocabulary building, critical thinking, and avoiding common errors that can impact your performance.
With IELTS-style exercises for all four skills—listening, reading, writing, and speaking—this book provides practical application alongside regular progress checks to track improvement.
Language Levels (CEFR)
- IELTS Vocabulary For Bands 6.5 and above (B2 – C1)
An entry test identifies your strengths and areas for improvement, allowing you to focus on what matters most. Grammar concepts are reinforced through listening activities, helping to develop dual skills efficiently.
Language Levels (CEFR)
- IELTS Grammar For Bands 6.5 and above (B1 – C1+)
Cambridge Vocabulary Mastery
Cambridge Vocabulary Mastery is an all-in-one course designed to enhance English communication skills by combining the best of English Vocabulary in Use, English Collocations in Use, English Phrasal Verbs in Use, and English Idioms in Use.
This dynamic programme helps learners develop a deep understanding of vocabulary in context, improving fluency and confidence in both academic and professional settings.
English Phrasal Verbs in Use
The English Phrasal Verbs in Use series by Cambridge University Press is a comprehensive resource designed to help learners master one of the trickiest aspects of English—phrasal verbs. Structured across proficiency levels and updated in its latest editions, the series provides clear explanations, real-world examples, and practical exercises.
English Phrasal Verbs in Use (Intermediate)
This book introduces over 1,000 phrasal verbs, helping students build confidence in understanding and using them in everyday conversations and writing.
English Phrasal Verbs in Use (Advanced)
It explores complex and less common phrasal verbs, equipping advanced students with the skills to use them naturally and effectively in professional and academic contexts.
Each book in the series includes engaging practice activities, real-life contexts, and explanations of common collocations and idiomatic expressions. Designed for both self-study and classroom use, the series ensures learners can confidently incorporate phrasal verbs into their spoken and written English.
Language Levels (CEFR)
- English Phrasal Verbs in Use Intermediate (B1 – B2)
- English Phrasal Verbs in Use Advanced (C1 – C2)
Course Preview & Sample Materials
English Vocabulary in Use
The English Vocabulary in Use series by Cambridge University Press is a trusted and versatile resource for building and expanding English vocabulary at all levels of proficiency. Created by leading language experts and updated in its latest editions, the series is designed to enhance learners’ vocabulary skills through clear explanations, engaging activities, and practical examples.
English Vocabulary in Use (Elementary)
Introduces basic vocabulary essential for everyday communication, making it ideal for beginners.
English Vocabulary in Use (Pre-Intermediate & Intermediate)
Bridges foundational and more complex vocabulary, enhancing fluency and understanding across a variety of contexts.
English Vocabulary in Use (Upper-Intermediate)
Delves deeper into vocabulary for diverse real-world and academic situations, with a focus on precision and effective usage.
English Vocabulary in Use (Advanced)
Covers sophisticated vocabulary, including idiomatic expressions and academic terminology, to support advanced communication needs.
Each book includes self-assessment tools, thematic units, and a wealth of exercises, making the series ideal for self-study and classroom use.
Language Levels (CEFR)
- English Vocabulary in Use Elementary (A1 – A2)
- English Vocabulary in Use Pre-Intermediate & Intermediate (B1)
- English Vocabulary in Use Upper-Intermediate (B2)
- English Vocabulary in Use Advanced (C1 – C2)
English Collocations in Use
The English Collocations in Use series by Cambridge University Press is an invaluable resource for learners aiming to achieve natural and fluent English. Authored by experienced language experts, the series focuses on teaching collocations—word combinations commonly used by native speakers—helping learners sound more authentic and confident.
English Collocations in Use (Intermediate)
Designed for learners to build a solid foundation of everyday collocations, making their English more accurate and natural.
English Collocations in Use (Advanced)
Explores sophisticated and specialised collocations, equipping learners with the tools to express themselves effectively in professional and academic contexts.
Both books feature clear explanations, engaging examples, and a wealth of practice exercises to reinforce learning. With topics ranging from general communication to work, education, and leisure, the English Collocations in Use series is ideal for self-study or classroom use, providing a pathway to mastering the nuances of English.
Language Levels (CEFR)
- English Collocations in Use Intermediate (B1 – B2)
- English Collocations in Use Advanced (C1 – C2)
Course Preview & Sample Materials
English Idioms in Use
The English Idioms in Use series helps learners master idiomatic expressions commonly used in English, enhancing both fluency and comprehension in real-world communication. The series is divided into two levels:
English Idioms in Use (Intermediate)
Designed for learners building their confidence in using idioms, it introduces a wide variety of expressions commonly used in daily conversations and informal settings.
English Idioms in Use (Advanced)
Perfect for those looking to refine their command of idiomatic language, this book focuses on more complex idioms, including those relevant in professional and academic environments.
Each book features engaging explanations, examples, and practice exercises to ensure learners can understand, use, and remember idiomatic expressions effectively.
Language Levels (CEFR)
- English Idioms in Use Intermediate (B1 – B2)
- English Idioms in Use Advanced (C1 – C2)
Unlocking the Full Potential of Learning with a Tutor
Personalised Learning for Targeted Results
Each lesson is tailored to your goals, focusing on the vocabulary most relevant to your academic, professional, or personal needs.
Practical Application in Real Contexts
Gain the confidence to use advanced vocabulary naturally in both professional and casual environments through real-world examples and practice.
Accelerated Progress with Expert Guidance
A tutor helps identify strengths and weaknesses, ensuring efficient learning by prioritising impactful vocabulary and correcting mistakes promptly.
Comprehensive Skill Development
The course integrates idioms, phrasal verbs, and collocations, providing a well-rounded foundation for navigating complex English communication.
Sustained Motivation and Engagement
Continuous feedback and encouragement keep you focused and inspired, making learning enjoyable and progress tangible.
Advamced English Grammar
Advanced English Grammar for teenagers is designed to help teenagers master complex grammar structures with confidence and clarity.
The course emphasises using grammar in context, enabling students to apply advanced concepts effectively in both academic and real-life situations.
Integrated Grammar and Vocabulary Units
Grammar units begin with clear presentations of rules and examples, followed by graded exercises.
Exam-Focused Practice
The exercises are geared towards tasks relevant to each exam level, ensuring students practice the types of questions they will encounter.
Comprehensive Reviews and Progress Tests
The series includes multiple review sections and progress tests, offering extensive opportunities for consolidation of grammar and vocabulary skills.
Supportive Reference Materials
Each book provides additional support through unit-by-unit glossaries with definitions and example sentences, enhancing understanding and retention of new language items.
Primary Coursebooks
Drawing exclusively on the Oxford English Grammar Course (Intermediate & Advanced) and Oxford Practice Grammar (Intermediate & Advanced), this course offers clear explanations, targeted exercises, and practical applications designed for intermediate and advanced learners.
It focuses on refining grammar skills, enabling effective communication in academic, professional, and personal contexts.
Mastering grammar is key to achieving fluency and precision in English at higher levels. By combining expert resources from these trusted Oxford series, the course provides targeted support to overcome common challenges and achieve advanced language goals.
With an emphasis on clarity, progression, and practical use, it’s the ideal programme for those seeking to enhance their proficiency and confidence in English.
Course Preview & Sample Materials – Oxford English Grammar Course
Supplementary Resources
Grammar in Context (7th edition) by National Geographic is a dynamic four-level series that makes grammar engaging and relevant through real-world content and contextualised readings.
With features like real-world Grammar in Use notes, comprehension questions, interactive activities, and review sections, this series supports students in learning, practising, and mastering grammar in meaningful contexts.
Macmillan’s Destination Grammar & Vocabulary series is a comprehensive three-level resource designed to enhance students’ language proficiency at B1, B2, and C1 & C2 levels.
Each level offers a structured approach to mastering grammar and vocabulary, aligning with the Common European Framework of Reference for Languages (CEFR).
Five Reasons to Choose 'Advanced English Grammar'
Comprehensive Skill Building
Balances grammar and vocabulary to develop strong academic, professional, and everyday communication skills.
Versatile for All Goals
Supports exam preparation, academic progress, and professional English proficiency.
CEFR-Aligned Levels
Covers B1, B2, and C1-C2, ensuring systematic progression for intermediate to advanced learners.
Practical Real-World Focus
Relates language learning to academic, workplace, and everyday contexts for effective use.
Lifelong Fluency
Builds lasting confidence and mastery of English for diverse personal and professional needs.
Cambridge Unlock I.
Cambridge Unlock: Listening, Speaking & Critical Thinking is a unique and innovative course designed to enhance learners’ communication skills while fostering critical thinking abilities.
Ideal for students preparing for academic or professional contexts, the course develops both practical English language skills and essential 21st-century competencies.
Each unit combines authentic listening and speaking tasks with thought-provoking topics, encouraging students to engage with real-world issues while refining their language abilities.
The course incorporates engaging multimedia content, including videos from the BBC, to create immersive and impactful lessons.
By integrating listening, speaking, and critical thinking, Cambridge Unlock offers a holistic learning experience that equips students with the language and skills to succeed in academic and global settings.
Language Levels (CEFR)
- Unlock Level 1 (A1)
- Unlock Level 2 (A2)
- Unlock Level 3 (B1)
- Unlock Level 4 (B2)
- Unlock Level 5 (C1)
Cambridge Unlock II.
Cambridge Unlock: Reading, Writing & Critical Thinking is an exceptional course designed to advance learners’ academic literacy while building critical thinking skills essential for success in educational and professional environments.
This course blends academic reading and writing practice with a focus on analytical thinking, enabling students to process and produce high-quality, coherent texts.
Each unit is crafted around engaging themes that encourage exploration of global topics, integrating real-world relevance with language development.
Authentic texts and structured writing tasks guide learners in developing strong academic reading strategies and clear, effective writing skills. Multimedia elements, including inspiring videos from the BBC, further enrich the learning experience.
Through its unique integration of reading, writing, and critical thinking, Cambridge Unlock equips students with the skills needed to thrive in academic contexts and beyond.
Language Levels (CEFR)
- Unlock Level 1 (A1)
- Unlock Level 2 (A2)
- Unlock Level 3 (B1)
- Unlock Level 4 (B2)
- Unlock Level 5 (C1)
National Geographic Reflect I.
National Geographic Reflect: Listening & Speaking is a six-level series that combines relatable, student-centered content with essential academic skill development, making it a unique choice for mastering listening and speaking.
Through engaging National Geographic materials, students not only refine their communication skills but also explore their role in the wider world, fostering confidence and critical thinking.
With a clear focus on academic and critical thinking skills, Reflect prepares learners for success in their academic, professional, and personal pursuits.
Reflective activities encourage personalisation, deeper understanding, and thoughtful engagement with topics.
Language Levels (CEFR)
- Reflect: Listening & Speaking 1 (A1)
- Reflect: Listening & Speaking 2 (A2)
- Reflect: Listening & Speaking 3 (B1)
- Reflect: Listening & Speaking 4 (B1+)
- Reflect: Listening & Speaking 5 (B2)
- Reflect: Listening & Speaking 6 (C1)
National Geographic Reflect II.
National Geographic Reflect: Reading & Writing is a comprehensive six-level series that blends engaging, student-focused content with essential academic skills, offering a unique approach to developing reading and writing proficiency.
Through authentic National Geographic materials, students not only strengthen their literacy abilities but also explore global themes, building confidence and fostering critical thinking in the process.
By providing a structured framework for academic and analytical skills, Reflect prepares learners to succeed in reading and writing across academic, professional, and personal settings.
Reflective tasks allow students to connect with the material, assess their understanding, and critically engage with diverse topics.
This course, centred around Reflect: Reading & Writing, is an excellent resource for students looking to refine their English skills while exploring meaningful, real-world issues.
Language Levels (CEFR)
- Reflect: Reading & Writing 1 (A1)
- Reflect: Reading & Writing 2 (A2)
- Reflect: Reading & Writing 3 (B1)
- Reflect: Reading & Writing 4 (B1+)
- Reflect: Reading & Writing 5 (B2)
- Reflect: Reading & Writing 6 (C1)
Difference Between Unlock and Reflect Courses
Unlock (Cambridge)
Unlock takes an integrated skills approach, combining reading, writing, listening, and speaking in a cohesive way.
It is highly academic in focus, preparing students for university-level work with an emphasis on critical thinking and research skills.
Focuses on academic literacy, critical analysis, and the integration of skills, making it ideal for students transitioning to higher education.
Reflect (National Geographic)
It integrates relatable, real-world content with a focus on personalisation, critical engagement, and building confidence in specific skills.
Themes are broad and globally relevant, inspired by National Geographic content, encouraging learners to explore their place in the world while mastering skills for diverse academic, professional, and personal goals.
Offers a more holistic and reflective approach, emphasising personalisation and practical application of skills, with targeted support for either listening and speaking or reading and writing.
Both Unlock and Reflect are high-quality series, but their focus and delivery make them suitable for different goals. Unlock is ideal for academic preparation and integrated skills development, while Reflect is better suited for targeted skills enhancement and broader real-world applications.
Enhancing Learning with Monolingual Dictionaries
The use of monolingual dictionaries is a fundamental component of effective English language education. By providing definitions, explanations, and examples entirely in English, these dictionaries encourage learners to think in the target language rather than relying on translations.
Monolingual dictionaries expose learners to natural, context-based definitions and practical usage examples, helping them develop a deeper sense of word meaning and nuances.
They also promote the acquisition of synonyms, antonyms, and collocations, which are essential for building fluency and expanding language proficiency.
Additionally, working exclusively with English-language explanations strengthens critical thinking and problem-solving skills as learners engage actively with the language.
Below is a selection of my favourite monolingual English dictionaries, each offering unique features to support learners in building vocabulary, understanding nuances, and enhancing their communication skills.
- Cambridge Advanced Learner's Dictionary
- The Merriam-Webster Dictionary
- Oxford Advanced Learner's Dictionary
- Longman Dictionary of Contemporary English
- Collins English Dictionary
Learning English, Unlocking Our Future!