★ Now taking bookings for September classes. Contact us to book ★
ESOL Courses (English As a Second Language)
"Empowering Life Through the English Language"
Online
Learn anywhere with i.VICI – our secure, purpose-built virtual classroom
Newbury, Berkshire UK
Established Language Academy with 20+ years of academic excellence
Windsor, Berkshire, UK
Now Open! – English courses in the heart of this historic royal town
Keiko
“I was super impressed by ESOL course (advanced English) at VICI. The experienced teachers were not only teaching the language to extremely high standard, but also culturally very knowledgeable giving lots of interesting stories and useful information which made each lesson so lively and enjoyable.”
Alina
“I studied ESOL courses in 2023, in a mixed format. I’ve really enjoyed how interactive the lessons have been, particularly the focus on conversation practice…
These lessons have definitely made me feel more comfortable using English in everyday situations. I would highly recommend them to others.”
Salim Bouguerroua
“My coach throughout the course was truly exceptional, demonstrating both outstanding human and professional qualities, effective teaching methods, and excellent pedagogy. I highly recommend this course and this language coach.”
Valérie Wittman
“I am very happy with the methods used by VICI, particularly the whiteboard and visual aids. I had never experienced such a training before. I wasn’t convinced before starting, but I now find this method very effective and impactful… the lessons go by too quickly.“
Françoise Fumey
“I will recommend VICI to my friends and family. Their trainers are professional, warm, and supportive. The training takes place in a trusting environment, and the coaches demonstrate an adapted pedagogy.”
Valerie Hug
“The training was perfectly aligned with my request and especially tailored to the vocabulary needed in my professional field.”
Keiko
“I was super impressed by ESOL course (advanced English) at VICI. The experienced teachers were not only teaching the language to extremely high standard, but also culturally very knowledgeable giving lots of interesting stories and useful information which made each lesson so lively and enjoyable.”
Alina
“I studied ESOL courses in 2023, in a mixed format. I’ve really enjoyed how interactive the lessons have been, particularly the focus on conversation practice…
These lessons have definitely made me feel more comfortable using English in everyday situations. I would highly recommend them to others.”
Salim Bouguerroua
“My coach throughout the course was truly exceptional, demonstrating both outstanding human and professional qualities, effective teaching methods, and excellent pedagogy. I highly recommend this course and this language coach.”
Valérie Wittman
“I am very happy with the methods used by VICI, particularly the whiteboard and visual aids. I had never experienced such a training before. I wasn’t convinced before starting, but I now find this method very effective and impactful… the lessons go by too quickly.“
Françoise Fumey
“I will recommend VICI to my friends and family. Their trainers are professional, warm, and supportive. The training takes place in a trusting environment, and the coaches demonstrate an adapted pedagogy.”
Valerie Hug
“The training was perfectly aligned with my request and especially tailored to the vocabulary needed in my professional field.”
Our Newbury Academy is British Council Accredited
Being accredited by the British Council means our school meets high standards of teaching, student support, and overall quality. This recognition is especially important for international students seeking a trusted and reputable place to study English.
Improve Your English with Confidence
Our ESOL (English for Speakers of Other Languages), EFL (English as a Foreign Language), and ESL (English as a Second Language) courses are designed to develop your skills in reading, writing, listening, spoken production, and spoken interaction.
These interactive and practical small-group classes follow a structured curriculum, helping you communicate with clarity and confidence.
You’ll learn alongside others in a supportive, friendly environment where collaboration encourages progress and builds lasting connections.
Why choose our English course?
Get ready for life in the UK and feel at home in your local community.
Strengthen your English skills before starting university or working in an international setting.
Benefit from short-term English support while staying with friends or family in Windsor, Ascot, or Maidenhead.
Step Inside VICI...
Explore Our Engaging Learning Spaces
Who we are
VICI is a boutique language academy with two locations in Berkshire: Newbury and Windsor.
Our Newbury Academy has been delivering high-quality English language programmes for over 20 years. Located in the heart of a traditional market town, it offers an immersive and supportive learning environment.
In Windsor, our newest location opened in 2025 just a few minutes’ walk from the iconic castle, giving students a chance to learn English in a vibrant and historic setting.
Our students come from diverse backgrounds. Some need English for daily tasks like shopping, attending appointments, or helping their children with school. Others are preparing for university in the UK, or improving their English for work, study, or career progression.
35 Qualified and Experienced Language Coaches.
English & World Languages
ESOL and 10 other modern languages.
In-person Classes at our Academies and Online through the i.Vici Platform.
Partnerships with large companies such as Disney and Vodaphone, plus Police Forces and the Local Council.
Nathalie Danon, Academy Principal
Hi, I’m Nathalie, the VICI Academy Director.
I arrived in the UK from France over 25 years ago, with only a couple of suitcases and a school-level English ability – I know first hand the challenges of starting over in a new country.
Daily life, work, building a social network and functional English skills was challenging at times, even with my good knowledge of the English language.
My personal experience fueled a passion for creating a supportive space where others can improve their English, gain confidence, and achieve their goals, whether it’s finding a job, enrolling in university, or integrating into British society.
Language isn’t just about words—it’s about opportunities, independence, and belonging!
Nathalie Danon, Academy Director
Meet Our Management Team
Corinna Anderson
Director of Studies
Jo Allen
Deputy Director of Studies
Aneta Jaworowska
Team Onboarding
Our English language coaches hold recognised certifications such as CELTA, CertTESOL, or equivalent, and many bring years of experience in EFL and ESOL education. We are not an agency that selects coaches based solely on a CV or project—our coaches are an integral part of our team and work with us throughout the year, providing consistency, care, and continuity to our learners.
Each coach is carefully selected through a thorough recruitment and onboarding process to ensure they meet our high professional standards and truly reflect our values of care, personalisation, and excellence in language education.
Our English Courses and Programmes
We have two locations in the UK — Newbury and Windsor — each offering a unique learning experience.
Group and One To One
Dedicated team for English as a Second Language
One-to-one classes
Group classes
Everyday English courses
Business English courses
IELTS and citizenship exam preparation
In-person and online
Current Courses Available
Beginners (In-Person): Monday & Wednesday, 11 AM – 1 PM
Intermediate (In-Person): Saturday, 10 AM – 12 PM
From September 2025:
Beginner, Intermediate & Advanced (In-Person): Monday to Friday, 10 AM – 1.15 PM
Flexible one-to-one lessons available online and in person Monday to Saturday
Students typically study between 2 and 15 hours per week.
Residential Programmes
English residential programme for students aged 12-17 from abroad
Personalised programmes available year-round
Specialist summer educational English programmes for intensive learning
Shared housing managed by the VICI team for a comfortable stay
Group Classes
Fees and T&C’s
Private Classes
Fees and T&C’s
Ready to Learn or Improve Your English?
Complete the form below and we will contact you with the next steps.
Need any support? Contact our team – we’d be very happy to help!
We do not offer on-site accommodation as part of our ESOL Programmes for adults.
Our residential programmes are available for students aged 12-17 can include accommodation. Detail here.
As our Academy welcome students under the age of 18, we take safeguarding very seriously. You can view our Safeguarding Policy here.
The Support We Offer
VISA Support
We provide a letter of invitation for those from overseas, for you to apply for a short-term VISA.
Small Group Classes
A concentrated group of students for maximum focus and engagement.
One To One Lessons
Extra support available for those who need a boost with focused and personalised tutoring.
Listening
Practice listening to different topics, dialects and accents to improve your skills.
Speaking
Small group sizes to ensure all students get to practise their English oral skills.
Pronunciation
Support from the teacher and your peers to ensure you are pronouncing words correctly.
Reading
Plenty of resources available to help you understand how to read English.
Writing
Expert tutoring in English grammar and verbs, to boost your confidence in writing.
British Culture
Learn about British culture, traditions and local dialects.
Exam Prep
Special classes for various English exams like the IELTS to practice oral, writing and listening skills.
Digital Resources
Access to plenty of digital resource to boost your learning outside of class.
Online Testing & Certification
Offering English language qualifications and certifications.
Joins US in 4 Simple Steps!
Students in all ages and levels can enrol on our ESOL Programme! Simply follow the steps below to get started.
1. Simply complete the online form using the button below.
2. Upon completion, you will be redirected to the English Assessment.
3. One of our team members will follow up to arrange an optional consultation to assess your needs and objectives.
4. We will tailor a learning plan suited to your needs. It may include group lessons, one-on-one sessions, or a combination of both.
Track Your Progress
You can choose to opt for formal level testing, combining AI and human assessment. It’s CEFR-aligned and provides an official certificate for work, study, or personal goals.
You’ll be handed a Core Communicative Skills Booklet to help you understand your progress in English and break down your level across the main skills: reading, writing, speaking, and both spoken interaction and production.
You’ll receive a VICI Learning Diary – a tool to help you take structured notes during class, reflect on your progress, and make revision easier.
4 Ways to Support You!
In and Out of the Classroom
1. A course textbook may be included in your programme—usually when you first enrol. We’ll let you know if it’s covered by your fees.
2. You can borrow a range of additional materials, including graded readers, grammar books, dictionaries, and bilingual magazines.
3. You can access a variety of digital self-study platforms to support grammar, vocabulary, listening, and communication. Some may require a small additional fee.
4. You can join our cultural and community events to practise English in social settings and grow your confidence.
English Course Delivery Options
In-person lessons at our Newbury Academy – Join small group or 1:1 classes in a supportive and immersive environment.
Online lessons via our i.VICI virtual classroom – Access your English classes remotely through our secure and interactive virtual classroom.
Hybrid options available – Combine in-person and online learning for maximum flexibility and continuity.
VICI Academy is not an Exam Centre, But We Help You Prepare
You can prepare for external English language exams such as IELTS, Cambridge (PET, FCE, CAE, CPE), or Trinity with us.
You may choose to follow a General English course to build core skills, or opt for one-to-one coaching tailored to your specific exam preparation needs.
Our academic team can advise on suitable exam pathways and provide targeted support upon request.
KET - Key English Test
Entry level English exam
Acquire the first English skills, ask and give directions, ask questions, and communicate in familiar situations.
PET - Preliminary English Test
Everyday written and spoken skills. Students will manage a range of practical everyday situations including work and study.
FCE - First Certificate in English
Practical everyday purposes, including business and study – use in clerical, secretarial/managerial work. You would be able to deal with paperwork, telephone, general office duties, etc.
CAE - Certificate in Advanced English
Participate in meetings and discussions, expressing opinions clearly, and be able to understand and produce texts of various types, including business letters and reports.
CPE - Certificate in Proficiency in English
Highest level of the Cambridge examinations
Knowledge of vocabulary and grammar and an ability to use the language in real contexts are the features of this level.
IELTS (International English Language Testing System) Exam
Listening, reading, writing and speaking. The test scores candidates in a range from 1 (non-user) to 9 (expert user). Scores of 6.5 and above are usually accepted by academic institutions worldwide as demonstrating various levels of English attainment.
Assessment & Certification
You’ll receive a Certificate of Completion from the academy at the end of your English course.
If you are interested in Preparing for a Specific Exam, please book an appointment with our team to discuss your options.
Where can you find us?
While our on-site car parks are reserved for staff, both of our centres have been carefully chosen for their easy access to nearby public parking.
For those enrolling on full-time courses, we’re also pleased to contribute towards car park costs as part of our student support.
Newbury, Berkshire, UK
In Newbury, there are several convenient options just minutes from the academy — including the Kennet Centre car park, a particularly practical choice: less than a five-minute walk away, with rates starting from just a few pounds.
Windsor, Berkshire, UK
Our Windsor centre is conveniently located next to the train station and its car park, with rates from just £1.20 per hour—ideal for students attending lessons. For added convenience, we also offer free parking with selected courses.
Frequently Asked Questions
What types of English courses do you offer?
We offer a range of English programmes including General English, English for Life in the UK, English for Work, Exam Preparation (IELTS, Cambridge), and short-term immersion options. Whether you’re learning for daily life, study, or career, we have a course to suit your goals.
Can I join at any time of the year?
Yes. Our academy is open all year round, except during the Christmas break. Thanks to our rotating syllabus, new students can join at any time and smoothly integrate into ongoing classes.
Do you accept complete beginners?
Yes. We welcome learners at all levels, including those with no previous English experience.
Are classes group-based or one-to-one?
We offer both small group classes and one-to-one coaching. Many students combine the two to benefit from structured teaching and more focused individual support.
I already live in the UK — can I still join your courses?
Absolutely. Many of our learners live locally and choose to improve their English for work, study, or daily life in the UK.
Where are your centres located?
We have two academies in Berkshire:
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Newbury, a peaceful market town with excellent connections
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Windsor, a royal town just 25 minutes from London, near Windsor Castle
Can I come for a short course — for 2 to 4 weeks?
Yes We offer flexible short-term courses that are ideal for visitors, those between jobs or studies, or anyone looking for a focused boost in their English.
Can you help with accommodation?
We do not provide accommodation directly. Our local team can point you towards agencies or websites that offer short-term accommodation options in Newbury or Windsor.
Do you support student visa applications?
Yes. As a British Council accredited academy, we are able to support visa applications for eligible students.
Once you have completed an application form, been accepted onto a programme, confirmed your length of stay, and paid your course fees, we will issue a Letter of Invitation. You can submit this with your visa application to UK authorities.
Please note: It is the student’s responsibility to ensure they apply for the appropriate visa and meet all necessary requirements.
What age groups do you accept at the academy?
Our adult group programmes are open to learners aged 16 and over.
We also run dedicated teen programmes starting from age 12, available throughout the year. Our flagship immersion programme for teenagers is especially popular in the summer months.
How do I know my English level before starting?
We offer a free level check and consultation before you begin your course. This helps us place you in the right group or recommend the best starting point.
What are the typical lesson times?
Our full-time English classes take place Monday to Friday, from 10:00am to 1:15pm. We also offer occasional weekend or evening sessions depending on demand. If you have specific scheduling needs, just let us know — we’ll do our best to accommodate.
Can I study online if I don’t live near your academy?
Yes. We offer live one-to-one English coaching through our own digital platform, i.VICI.
This isn’t just a video call — i.VICI is a platform purpose-built for language learners, where you work directly with an English coach in real time. It offers an engaging, interactive experience designed to feel just as impactful as learning in person.
How much does it cost to study with VICI?
The cost of studying at our academy depends on how long you stay and how complete your programme is
Some students join for short courses starting from £295, while others enrol in more comprehensive programmes ranging from £6,000 to £8,000, depending on what’s included.
The best way to receive an accurate and personalised quote is to email us at learn@thevici.com with a few details about your goals and availability.
Who teaches at the VICI Language Academy? Are your coaches qualified?
Yes — all of our English coaches are fully qualified and experienced, and many have worked with international learners for years.
We’re led by a Director of Studies who oversees academic quality at both centres, supports our learners and staff, and ensures that everything meets British Council standards.
All new team members complete a thorough onboarding process, including training in our methodology, safeguarding, and learner support. Our standards are high — and we believe our learners deserve nothing less.
Do you organise any social or cultural activities outside of class?
Yes, we do. At VICI, we believe that learning English includes connecting with others and experiencing life in the UK.
We organise social events like pub evenings, quiz nights, theatre outings, and cultural days where students bring dishes from their home countries.
We also offer local excursions — Windsor Castle, Highclere Castle, Donnington Castle, riverside walks — and run fun, language-based workshops such as conversation evenings or grammar games.
Ask a team member for our latest activity agenda.
How long has VICI been operating
The VICI Language Academy has been helping people learn languages for over 23 years.
Founded in Newbury, we’ve grown to include our Windsor centre and continue to uphold the same standards, supportive atmosphere, and focus on real-world communication.
Do you only teach English at VICI?
No. While English is at the core of our British Council accredited centres, we are a multilingual language academy.
Across our team of over 35 coaches, we offer programmes in a wide range of languages, including French, Spanish, Italian, Portuguese, German, Arabic, Polish, Russian, Chinese, and Japanese.
All of our courses are delivered with the same high standards, supportive coaching, and commitment to learner success.
Ready to start learning English?
+44 01635 44424
(Mon-Fri 8am to 6.30pm and Saturday 9am to 2pm UK timezone)
learn@thevici.com
Inna Bondar
“The best English teachers!“
Jana Chenine
“An incredible place to study, an amazing place to work and a lovely place to make friends. That you are from Newbury or not – I highly recommend!”
Olga Łęcka
“My first impression of this place was very good. I was welcomed by a really nice lady Nathalie. She asked about my language needs and very quickly found a suitable teacher for me. The teacher chosen by her turned out to be perfect and now I am 100% I can already see an improvement in my spoken and written language, thank you!”
Annick Bonnac
“I was particularly impressed by the creativity of my teacher. The lessons were always connected to my personal interests, which made learning even more motivating and exciting.”
Stéphanie Hauswald
“I highly recommend your training organisation and the methods used to aid progress. My teacher was able to adapt to my professional situation and needs.”
Sarah Lesin
“A great team, always listening and available. I recommend VICI Languages, which is a small company but gives more effort than some larger, more well-known ones.“
Newbury & Windsor
12 West Mills Yard, Kennet Road, Newbury, RG14 5LP
59–60 Thames Street, Windsor, SL4 1TX
+44 1635 444 24 or learn@thevici.com