English Assessments and Training for Teachers

More and more education at Utrecht University is given in English. That is why it has been agreed that everyone who teaches will have the English level C1 (CEFR). The university wants to support its employees in achieving this level. In an assessment you can find out whether your English language skills are at the right level and in a special training for scientists you can achieve the desired level.

Assessment

The offer starts with an assessment where your level is determined. You will receive advice on which training is suitable for you or is not necessary. The UU uses level 3 of Lecturer Assessment Grid, comparable to C1 of the CEFR. The assessment consists of an online test and an oral test. If the result of the assessment is level 3 of the Lecturer Assessment Grid (i.e. your language skills are at the desired level), this will be recorded in the personnel administration. If you do not yet have sufficient English language skills to pass the test, the test will provide information about the skills that can be further trained. The assessments will be held continuously, after which the new round of training courses will start in October 2019.

Training

After the assessment, you will receive advice and (if necessary) a link to register via the Development Guide for the training that suits your level and planning. The trainings are based on the principle English as a Medium of Instruction (EMI). This principle is based on skills that are important for teaching in the International Classroom. It is not only about how well you can speak, read or write English but also how you use the skills in your education. The training is concluded with a final test.

Good to know

There are no costs associated with the assessment and training for employees with one permanent contract and temporary lecturers and UDs with an appointment of more than two years. Even if you do not (yet) teach English, you can participate in the assessment and training. Obtaining level 3 English language skills is one of the criteria for obtaining the Basic Qualification Education. The assessments and training courses are provided by Babel.

Questions? Contact Karlijn van Gils, HR Department.