ELSH, established in March 2013 and officially registered as a charity in 2019, operates under the guiding motto of “Bringing Communities Together through English.”

ELSH stands as the sole established provider in Barnsley, extending a welcoming invitation to individuals seeking early intervention and comprehensive support on their journey toward English language proficiency.

Our unique offering encompasses pre-entry, entry 1, 2, and 3 levels, all delivered free of charge, ensuring a smooth transition into local colleges. Join us as we pave the way for your educational advancement and linguistic empowerment. ELSH is committed to facilitating entry-level education, ELSH offers comprehensive English language instruction encompassing speaking, reading, listening, and writing, all provided free of charge. Our collaborative efforts extend beyond the classroom as we partner with local agencies and community organisations dedicated to supporting asylum-seekers, refugees, EU migrants, women, children, and families.

We take great pride in cultivating an exceptional, secure, and nurturing learning environment tailored to the needs of our local vulnerable people. Within this space, we extend unwavering support to empower them, fostering confidence, nurturing self-esteem, and equipping them with the essential learning skills and knowledge pivotal for their progression into higher studies.

In addition to our English, Mathematics, IT, and Health and Wellbeing courses we provide invaluable opportunities for work experience, placements, and training in strategic partnerships with esteemed institutions such as Barnsley College, Northern College, and Adult Learning Skills, harnessing collective expertise to enrich the educational experience of our students. Furthermore, we extend our mentorship to students from renowned universities like Huddersfield and Sheffield, offering invaluable guidance and support as they navigate their academic journeys.

In alignment with our commitment to fostering inclusive education, we actively collaborate with Supported Employment & Volunteering Services to provide tailored support to young individuals not in education, employment, or training (NEETs). Through our collective efforts, we empower these individuals with the skills and knowledge necessary to unlock their full potential and thrive in their chosen paths. These immersive experiences are seamlessly integrated into our curriculum, offering our students practical skills and real-world insights to enhance their employability or pursue advanced studies upon completion of their journey with ELSH.

In response to the valuable feedback from our cohorts, we have expanded our offerings to include a range of health and wellbeing initiatives aimed at fostering community cohesion and enhancing mental wellness. Through tailored programs, such as morning fitness sessions, we provide a platform for individuals to come together, forge meaningful connections, and combat feelings of isolation. These initiatives not only address loneliness but also contribute to the improvement of mental health and overall wellbeing within our community.

We warmly invite you to explore our website to discover how we can support your educational journey and community engagement activities. We look forward to welcoming you and facilitating your exploration of our resources. Together, we can strive to dismantle linguistic barriers and foster seamless integration into the local community.

Our Aims

Mission: to provide a positive, safe and stimulating environment for young parents and young people, predominantly asylum seekers, refugees, and migrants not engaged in education, employment or training. To enjoy their learning, achieve their potential, and successfully integrate, become independent and part of the local community.

Vision: Bringing all communities together in Barnsley through English, with the core value of life-long learning for those in need.

Charity Objectives:

Our charity objectives at ELSH are crafted with a sincere commitment to fostering social inclusion and empowerment for those marginalized due to social and economic disparities. Through our programs, we offer a welcoming environment where individuals can access essential support to enhance their functional skills and confidence.

1. Education and Training:

We extend a warm invitation to design our curriculum by listening and involving our cohorts during our meetings to foster their journey of learning and growth. Through active listening and meaningful engagement with our cohorts during our meetings, we ensure that their voices are heard, and their needs are met. By actively involving our community in the design process, we foster a sense of ownership and commitment to their learning journey.

Furthermore, we are dedicated to crafting innovative projects that directly address the feedback and aspirations shared by our students. Enabling us to tailor our initiatives to meet the specific needs and aspirations of our community, unlocking new avenues of opportunity and empowering individuals to realise their full potential, where every contribution plays a crucial role in making a lasting impact on the lives of those we serve. Together, we are creating a brighter future for all.

2. Social and Recreational Engagement:

Together, we are creating a vibrant social and recreational facilities and events that bring together the local community. Their support is enabling us to foster connections, build relationships, and strengthen the framework of our society. ELSH plays a pivotal role in fostering positive change and making a tangible difference in the lives of those we serve. Working together to build a more inclusive and vibrant community for all.