Conversation Classes help us through Covid-19

RETAS has responded quickly to the needs of our clients during Covid-19 lockdown. Using Zoom to deliver weekly English conversation classes is just one innovative way to support isolated learners. Najwa, who has been delivering the classes as part of the Syrian Resettlement Project, tells us more:

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Najwa is delighted with the success of our new conversation classes

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​Hi everyone,

I am Najwa . I work as an Employment and Education Advisor on Syrian Resettlement Project (SRP), at RETAS. I also deliver Conversation Classes remotely, for SRP learners. It is not just Conversation classes. It is a lively and fun-filled conversation environment, where we share and acquire knowledge of conversational English by entertaining each other and learning at the same time. Therefore, learners always feel free to express their thoughts and opinions on topics of interest. Although there are ground rules, but we relate with each other in a friendly manner and this has created a conducive environment for learning. RETAS teams are working hard to support our clients in the education and wellbeing areas, and RETAS Conversation Classes have been structured on our learners' needs.
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At RETAS we value our clients' opinions and their feedback. I am pleased that I am one of RETAS team members who is able to contribute to our learners' success during this pandemic period.  At RETAS Conversational Classes, we learn from each other and help ourselves to improve on our spoken and written English. I am so proud of some of the fantastic feedback I have so far received from my learners. 

One person told us:
​"The conversation classes has encouraged me to be confident when I speak and not to be afraid of making mistakes, irrespective of my accent or age." 

Someone else told us: " We feel free to talk and express our thoughts and feelings, and no one judges us. The class is fun, and an optimistic place where one could relieve ourselves of Covid 19 stress.”

Recently we were able to get a small group together for the first time, to enjoy a socially distanced picnic. It was great to chat face to face, and enjoy some summer games like an egg and spoon race! We were really grateful to local childminder Margaret Makwaeba who helped make the day possible. 
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I'd like to thank my RETAS family for supporting me to deliver these classes. And, a big thanks to learners who have attended my classes regularly. I'm so proud of you. Please, clap for yourself!

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Enjoying our socially distanced picnic recently

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