Centre for English Language Studies (CELS)

The Centre for English Language Studies (CELS) at Âé¶¹Íø is a dynamic academic unit dedicated to developing students’ English language proficiency, communication skills, and intercultural competence. Its overarching aim is to provide comprehensive English language and communication support across the University, enabling the development of future-ready, highly employable graduates equipped for global success. Grounded in a commitment to academic excellence, CELS equips learners with the linguistic and critical thinking abilities needed to succeed in both higher education and the global workplace.

At the core of CELS is a strong commitment to collaboration, innovation, and student-centred learning. The Centre fosters a supportive academic community where educators work closely together to create engaging and effective learning experiences. This collaborative ethos extends into the classroom, where students are encouraged to participate actively, think critically, and communicate confidently across diverse cultural contexts.

Guided by its mission, CELS focuses on several key areas:
 

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Developing English Language Proficiency for Academic Readiness

CELS equips learners with the essential English language skills required to undertake college- and university-level programmes conducted in English, ensuring a strong foundation for academic success.

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Supporting Holistic Language Development

The Centre enhances learners’ fluency and accuracy in English through an integrated approach that develops both oral and written communication skills.

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Preparing Students for Academic and Professional Contexts

Through a strong emphasis on English for Academic Purposes (EAP), CELS enables students to participate effectively in higher education and prepares them for communication demands in globalised professional environments.

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Enabling Progression Pathways

CELS ensures that students achieve the required level of English proficiency to progress confidently into diploma, degree, and other academic programmes within the university.

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Promoting Global Competence and Communication Skills

The Centre empowers learners with internationally relevant English skills, offering participation in international education projects, thus supporting their readiness for further study and enhancing their opportunities in a global career landscape.

To support these goals, CELS offers a comprehensive range of programmes, including the Intensive English Programme (IEP) and English for Specific Academic Purposes (ESAP) courses embedded within degree programmes. In addition, the Centre provides academic language support services and professional training opportunities, reflecting its commitment to lifelong learning and real-world relevance.

CELS is also actively engaged in institutional innovation. The Centre has contributed to shaping the University’s AI policy and strategic roadmap, reflecting its forward-looking approach to language education in the digital age. Its lecturers have conducted AI training workshops across the university, supporting both staff and students in developing responsible and effective uses of emerging technologies in academic and professional contexts.

With a team of experienced and internationally minded educators, CELS creates a vibrant learning environment that values diversity, creativity, and intellectual growth. Through its holistic and forward-looking approach, the Centre continues to empower students to become confident communicators and globally competent graduates.
 

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Meet the Head of Centre

We welcome all to the supportive English language environment of Âé¶¹Íø

Hello from the Centre for English Language Studies (CELS), where we welcome students from all backgrounds. Here at Âé¶¹Íø, we provide a supportive English language environment where language development is embedded across the entire university experience. My team and I support English language education across the university and integrate critical thinking, intercultural communication and curiosity in the way we approach teaching and learning. As multilingual educators, we understand that effective language learning is both rigorous and engaging, yet we also aim to develop in students the skills needed to communicate clearly and effectively with a range of people and contexts. This is anchored in our belief that language is a key aspect of being human and is often what connects us across countries and cultures. Therefore, CELS provides a meeting place for students and staff to both exchange and co-create ideas.

Associate Professor Dr Nicholas Lee

Head - Centre for English Language Studies, Head of English for Specific Academic Purposes Unit