Start Date
- September 2026, Part Time, Day
What You Will Study
This course is ideal if you speak English and another language and would like to support people in your community. You will gain a clear introduction to community interpreting, helping you understand how language is used in real situations such as healthcare, education and local council services.
You will explore how interpreters help people access important services and learn about the skills and qualities needed to work in this area. Lessons will be supportive and practical, giving you time to build confidence, develop vocabulary and practise professional communication.
This course will help you take the first step towards a future in interpreting or community support, while also strengthening your English skills for work, study and everyday life.
By the end of the course, you will be able to:
- Recognise how language changes in different situations and settings
- Use basic public service vocabulary with confidence
- Understand how public services and voluntary organisations support communities
- Explain the role and responsibilities of a community interpreter
- Begin to identify the skills needed for interpreting and community-based work
Entry Requirements
You need to have gained ESOL Level 1 or equivalent.
You should be confident communicating in English and at least one other language.
An initial assessment or discussion may be used to make sure the course is right for you.
How You Will Be Assessed
You will be assessed through a portfolio of work, which you will complete during the course.
Assessment activities may include:
- Short written tasks
- Worksheets and practical activities
- Group discussions
- Short presentations with tutor support
There are no exams, and you will receive regular feedback from your tutor to help you succeed. You will be supported throughout the course to help you understand the assessment tasks and build your confidence.
Course Progression
After successful completion of this course, you could progress to:
- Level 2 or Level 3 Community Interpreting qualifications
- Further ESOL or Adult Skills courses
- Other vocational courses where communication and community skills are important
This course provides a strong foundation if you want to continue learning and progressing within further education.
Where Your Course Can Take You
This course can support you towards:
- Community interpreting (with further study)
- Volunteering roles within community organisations
- Support roles in health, education, housing or local services
- Jobs where bilingual skills and cultural awareness are valued
Even if you do not plan to become an interpreter, the skills you gain will be useful in many workplaces and in everyday communication.
Fees
If you are a UK or home fee status student and aged 16 to 18 on 31 August before the start of your course, your tuition fees will be free. If you are aged 19 and over, please contact the Advice Shop for more information by email at information@ccn.ac.uk or by calling 01603 773773.
