Evaluation of the English for Speakers of Other Languages (ESOL) for Integration Fund Final Report

This document describes an evaluation of the English for Speakers of Other Languages (ESOL) for Integration Fund, a program designed to enhance English language proficiency and community integration for new UK residents with limited English skills. The program, which faced challenges due to the COVID-19 pandemic, including a reduction in learner numbers and a pivot to online learning, was assessed through various methods such as process evaluation and learner assessments. Results showed improvements in English language skills, particularly in speaking and listening, and increased social integration. The program benefited from qualified ESOL tutors, community-focused recruitment, and digital technologies, though it encountered issues with recruitment and digital literacy. The evaluation also highlighted the program's cost-effectiveness, the importance of highly-trained teachers, and the need for future programs to consider broader outcomes. It concluded that the ESOL program was effective in achieving its goals despite pandemic-related challenges, offering valuable insights for future language and integration initiatives. **This summary was written by an AI model and therefore should not be considered a definitive summary of the report. If you are aware of inaccuracies, please email evaluation.registry@cabinetoffice.gov.uk.**

Description

• Lead department: Department for Levelling Up, Housing and Communities (DLUHC)
• Evaluation stage: A complete evaluation report
• Other departments: No other departments listed
• Evaluation types: Process evaluation
• Process methods: Individual interviews
• Grant information: This intervention is not distributing funding via a grant
• Government Major Project information: This intervention is not a major project
• Policies: No policies provided

Event Dates

• Event Name: Publication of final results
• Event date: August 2022

Evaluation Costs

• Cost: Not provided

Evaluation sharing

• Link(s) to published report(s): Yes
• Links to evaluation plans: No link provided
• Findings: Not provided
• Permission to share confirmed: Yes