English teacher Nicky Turner is about to launch HubL, a new English language assessment and advice hub to support refugees, asylum seekers and migrants wanting to learn English. Here, the Sync the City People’s Choice winner explains how it has come about
A new, centralised service is starting in Norwich for people who want to find out their level of English and access the correct English course quickly. Nicky Turner had been thinking about this idea over for a long time when she was encouraged to take part in “Sync the City” late last year. This competition brings people with ideas together with people who can help them turn those ideas into a viable business.
Nicky’s project won the Peoples’ vote, gaining the endorsement of designers, marketing experts and web site designers. “It was nerve wracking,” says Nicky. “I knew I had a good idea, and I know about teaching English as a second language, but I’ve never run a business.”
Nicky, who has taught languages for many years, had the idea when she saw how confusing it can be for non-native English speakers trying to work out which courses suit them best, especially people newly arrived in the UK.
“There are lots of course providers out there,” says Nicky, “but no one signposting learners to the course that best suits their needs and current level of English. We are really lucky in Norwich to have such a great choice, but it’s hard to make that choice if you don’t know where to go!”
Since November, Nicky and co-director Kate Wallace have set up a not-for-profit company to develop the English language assessment and advice hub, with the help of some of their Sync the City team.
The result is HubL a one-stop shop for learners to get an assessment of their level of English, and their particular needs, and to then be signposted to the most appropriate course. Any non-native English speaker can access it at no cost.
A National Lottery Awards for All grant has enabled Nicky and Kate get the project up and running, and it launches on October 1. “We really believe this will help both learners and providers to make sure the right people are on the right course, and make life easier for everyone.”
Hubl launches on October 1, 2024. Visit hubl.org.uk.
Featured image of Nicky Turner, by Ann Nicholls
An excellent idea. I really hope this can be implemented nationwide.
I wish you all the best.
Andrea – ESOL Core Tutor Cheshire Area