The English Language center at APIS is vital to the success of those students whose first language is not English. Staffed by a strong team of teachers qualified to teach English to speakers of other languages, the Center is a place where those new to Thailand or new to an English-speaking school environment, are able to take risks as they experiment with English together in order to become proficient enough to move into more regular classes at grade level.

We believe that students need confidence if they are to make progress and we help them to achieve confidence in their use of English by arranging small classes in which the development of the four basic skills of language - reading, writing, speaking and listening- are students' initial focus.

• Students in Grades 1-5 may work with one of the Center staff for up to four lessons each day. This time provides a sound basis in the language and small group size, where students with similar skill levels work together, gives plenty of opportunity for practice and the embedding of learning.

• Middle School students follow a similar schedule joining their peers for subjects such as Mathematics, Science and Art where the teaching of concepts includes the teaching of the language needed for success.

Generally, students who are admitted to the High School will already have appropriate proficiency in the English language. Occasionally, however, we accept students whose English skills are weak. They will have targetted support from one of the Center staff as well as starting a High School English course - generally, the first of the Literature and Composition courses which teaches the skills needed for High School English courses.

Our aim is to have students join the mainstream classes as soon as they are able to benefit from them without making it necessary for the teacher to simplify concepts. As a result, students move out of intensive courses after different amounts of time. Some may need an extended period of specialist support in a small group but most are able to benefit more from support in the classroom where a language teacher works with them in other subjects where support is necessary