English for employees

Free English classes for employees who are New Zealand citizens or permanent residents.

For people with a job
Communicate well at work
Understand Kiwi workplace culture
Reading, writing and numeracy for work

Learn practical English for your work

You will learn English that helps you at work.   The course covers kiwi workplace culture and language. You will learn how to:

  • Describe your work and your job.
  • Write emails, letters and reports in workplace specific language.
  • Communicate in social situations at work.
  • Read and understand health and safety information.  
  • Understand and perform calculations with numbers.
  • Fill in a form with your personal details.  

You will also learn about the similarities and differences between workplaces in New Zealand and in other countries.

Learn with experienced and qualified teachers

NZQA has ranked us as a “Category 1” provider.  All our teachers have teaching qualifications and teaching experience.   Some teachers have been with us over 20 years.

Flexible class times so you can fit learning around work

We offer classes during the daytime, evening and at weekends.   You’ll be in class between 2.5 and 4 hours per week.

Learn in the classroom, online or at your workplace

We’ll help you find the class that works best for you.   If at least 4 - 6 of your colleagues want to learn English we can talk to your employer about teaching the class at your workplace.

Join a small friendly group

Our classes are small. You'll make new friends and get to know everyone in your class.

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FAQs

Can I learn English online with English Language Partners?

You can learn online if:

  • you live in New Zealand
  • are a resident or citizen of New Zealand
  • speak English as a second language
  • are 16 years or older and not attending school
  • we have a course that meets your needs

We will talk to you about the courses available.

You cannot learn online if you are on a temporary visa such as a:

  • Working holiday visa
  • Visitor/tourist visa
  • Student visa

How long are courses?

Our courses vary in length. It depends on the course. Many are 8 weeks, others can vary between 2 and 18 weeks long.

How much does it cost?

Our online courses are free to residents and citizens.

Can I study after work?

Yes. We have courses for people who work during the day and want to study in the evening.

What will I learn?

You will learn the English you need to live independently in New Zealand. Our courses help people with daily life, finding work, and future study. We will help you communicate in Kiwi English. You can also learn about Kiwi culture.

Can I study for the IELTS test?

Yes. In some centres. We sometimes offer online IELTS classes too.

What level are classes?

All levels. Courses are from beginner to advanced levels. We assess your level before placing you in a course. If a course at your level is not immediately available, we will place you on a class waitlist.

Can I study grammar?

Yes. Some courses have a specific grammar focus. Other courses include grammar as part of the course content.

How many hours each week are courses?

Most of our courses are part-time. Some are two hours each week, other courses are longer – up to 10 hours. You can join more than one class.

My computer system isn’t very good – can I join?

You need a reliable internet connection, a camera and a microphone.

How to enrol in an English for Employees course

 Step 1:  Check if you are eligible to attend this class for free. The eligibility requirements are:

  • You must be a New Zealand citizen or resident and be living in New Zealand.
  • You must be working (full time, part time or self-employed) when you start the class.
  • English is not your first language.
  • You are 16 years or older.
  • You are not going to school.  (For example, if you are 17 years old and attending high school you are not eligible)  
  • You do not have a qualification gained in New Zealand that is an undergraduate, postgraduate, or level 5 or above qualification.

Step 2:  Contact your nearest English Language Partners Centre.  Our friendly local team will help you find the best class for you.  

There are four ways to contact us.  Choose the easiest way for you.

  • Fill in this online form in English. We will contact you.
  • Visit your nearest English Language Partners Centre. We have 21 centres around New Zealand.  Check the address and opening hours online.
  • Telephone your nearest centre. Check the telephone number online.
  • Telephone our national office in Wellington if you don’t know which centre to contact.  Phone 04 471 7790.  

About English Language Partners

We have 21 centres and teach over 7,000 students in Aotearoa New Zealand. Our English courses help people feel welcome and settle into everyday life and work here.

We are not-for-profit, and all our courses are free or low cost for former refugees and migrants.

Kaimo Jiao

VOLUNTEER

The teacher is exceptional and did not (only) teach us specific knowledge, she taught us how to fish. This kind of style of teaching reformed my previous way of learning English.

Pro Kiwi Ltd

LEARNER

We have seen a huge improvement in speaking English during work practice, and our employees have really enjoyed their lessons. The end result has been excellent.

Kaimo Jiao

Learner

The teacher is exceptional and did not (only) teach us specific knowledge, she taught us how to fish. This kind of style of teaching reformed my previous way of learning English.

Jino George

Learner

The course was very useful. The teacher's attitude and inspiration motivated me to learn English. I decided to work hard to improve my language, which is a barrier in the communication. I learnt the importance of stress, intonation and language functions which helped me to improve my pronunciation. I would like to join in her class anytime if I get a chance.😊

Viktoriia Mikhyeyeva

Learner

I was lucky to get to your Road Code course. Migrants need a driver licence so much, but the language barrier prevents them. Thanks to you, anyone can get a driver's licence easily.

Polina Belenitskaia

Learner

If I hadn't taken your Road Code courses, I wouldn't have gotten my driver licence for another million years. After your lessons, it turned out to be very simple, in 10 minutes I got my first driver' licence in my life!

Pa Teauarai

Learner

It made me want to learn more so I can teach my kids English. I share my homework with them too.

Xu Huang

Learner

Learning English at English Language Partners makes me more confident and more positive.

Roger Feng

Learner

Now I have local topics I can talk with others, and I like reading the local news. I feel like I am part of it.

Nor Aini

Learner

Before I can't speak English, and now I can speak a little bit, because my teacher is a very nice teacher and she understands me for everything.

Anggi Putri

Learner

I really love my life now compared to before I started learning English. My life improving a lot in many aspect. I can do everything I want without any worried about communicate in English.

Come see us

We have 21 centres nationwide. Get in touch for a friendly chat. We would love to talk to you!

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English for Employees