One experience - living and learning English in London.

Feedback

2011-10-03T09:24:00.000Z

Thought it would be a good idea just to blog some of the comments from Language in Group students at Language in London in the last few weeks.

"A nice school witha great atmosphere. Language in London is a good school to learn English and meet people." Lucas, Spain

"It was a great time. I got a wonderful host family and I enjoyed the whole time. It is a great experience in my life." Regina, Germany

"I was getting better English in this school because there were a lot of foreign people and teachers taught English very well." Maho, Japan

I'll publish more of these every few weeks... there are so many lovely comments where students are very positive about the course, the school, the accommodation and the experience in general.

1,2, 3... Learning English on the move

2011-09-26T10:21:00.000Z

One of the great consequences of three schools working together in the Language in Group is that our students can try something unique. Going to a language school is great fun because of all the amazing people you can meet but it is also an opportunity to learn about a new place.

This year we have lots of students - both individuals and those coming as part of a group - who booked two locations so that they have an experience of more than one place. And this makes a lot of sense! It is particularly popular with students travelling to us from outside Europe, who want to see and try as much as possible. We have had students from Japan, Argentina and Brazil who have booked English language courses that combine a stay in the two capitals of England and Ireland and get to experience both Language in London and Language in Dublin. Others have tried one of these capital cities and combined it with an opportunity to discover what a beautiful, traditional small town in the English countryside is like - Language in Totnes.

When you move from one school to another the Language in Group will help you with the transfer and the teachers discuss what you have studied so you are ready to continue when you arrive at your new location.

We are still waiting for the first adventurous person to book a course at all three schools. What an experience that would be... Do you want to try it?

Director of Studies

2011-08-30T14:51:00.000Z

Language in London is currently looking for a Director of Studies to lead our academic team and ensure the students have a fantastic learning experience at this prize-winning school.
If you are interested, please go to http://www.languageingroup.com/work, where you will find the Application Form and Job Description.

Good luck!

One Year until..... the London Olympics 2012!

2011-07-27T10:52:00.000Z

Exactly 365 days to go until the opening ceremony of London 2012 Olympics and we can't wait!

Some students have asked us if London will be more expensive during this period. The simple answer is no. There will be some hotels charging more but in general everyone is committed to keeping prices down and turning London into party central for the summer.

In fact, it will be an amazing time to take a language course as there will be so much to do. And London is always busy so I don't think we'll notice the extra crowds. It will be fun, fun, fun!

Week 2 - Communicating with Confidence

2011-07-25T13:37:00.000Z

Language in London's new course - Communicating with Confidence in English - is now in its second week... and everything is going well.

We're looking forward to getting feedback from the students on the course so that we can start working on the second course, which begins in August.

Combining our language teaching skills with drama trainers from the Royal Academy of Dramatic Arts, this unique English programme is designed to help learners stop worrying about grammar and concentrate on all the skills needed to be effective when communicating.

We often wonder why other schools don't try new courses. Do they really think that teaching from a course book or a photocopy is the only alternative?

Cinderella in Trafalgar Square

2011-07-14T09:57:00.000Z

Great pictures of our students enjoying the free open-air opera at Trafalgar Square - http://www.facebook.com/LanguageinLondon. The social programme at Language in London can be opera one day, football in the park the next... and museums, pubs, clubs and cultural visits... the fun never stops.

We always advise our students to try everything because this is the best way to meet new people and practise English. That's why 45 wonderful students decided to join the opera trip and they all had a lot of fun.

Learning English is changing...

2011-07-11T13:21:00.000Z

Language in London is changing the way people learn English. It started with an idea... and now, six years later, it's becoming a revolution!

The theory is that traditional text books used in language classes are not always the best way to learn. So much of every lesson is spent discussing what the author of the book thinks you will find interesting! What's wrong with a course that really is based on YOU and YOUR INTERESTS?

That's why we developed a course called CULTURAL EXPERIENCE. If you choose to study in London then you must be interested in London... and so the course is based around the cultural heritage of this fantastic city. But apart from that, as the lessons all take place in museums and galleries, we don't tell you what language to learn but follow the direction the class takes us. Students love it, teachers love it... give it a try!

Nothing better than learning English in London

2011-07-04T15:17:00.000Z

It's July, the sun's shining on Monday morning and these are some of the lovely students who started today.
First day at a language school can be a little frightening.... "will they be expecting me?", "will I do ok in the test?", "will I find the school?".... but at Language in London we do everything we can to welcome our students and make them feel part of the family.
Mondays include a test, induction and explanation about the school, a walking tour of the local area and a special lesson for day one.

Language in Group

2011-06-23T15:16:00.000Z

This summer is a real Language in Group summer! We have students doing different combinations with courses in more than one of our schools. Some are staying in the UK and doing "the best of both worlds" with an English course at Language in London and Language in Totnes in Devon... others are combining one of the UK schools with a fantastic experience at Language in Dublin in Ireland.

This is a great way to practise English and have an unforgettable experience.

New Series on Facebook

2011-06-07T10:50:00.000Z

On our Facebook Page there is a new series of "Things that happened near Language in London in Bloomsbury."

As the school is in such an amazing location there is a rich history of events and people associated with the streets and buildings within walking distance of Language in London.

The first two posts describe how George Orwell got his idea for "1984" and Big Brother and also where Karl Marx wrote "Das Kapital".

Follow this series on Facebook.

Do you want to be confident in English?

2011-05-31T14:18:00.000Z

We know that our students want one thing... to be good at speaking English. And that means being confident in social situations, in interviews, at work, at university... in fact, this confidence is the difference between success and failure.

At Language in London we have a new programme to help you become confident in two weeks. It's called Communicating With Confidence and we use drama techniques to help language learners. We have developed this course with the Royal Academy of Dramatic Arts (RADA) Enterprises and we think it's very special!

Reading, Writing, Speaking, Listening..?

2011-05-27T14:33:00.001Z

We're running a poll on our Facebook Fan Page to see which of the language skills is most important to our students.
At the moment, it seems that most are choosing "Speaking". The good news is that at Language in London we have courses that are designed to help learners improve all aspects of their speaking skills. These three English courses are the best three.

If you vote then we learn more about what our students want!

Language in London

Royal Wedding

2011-04-27T14:23:00.000Z

All Language in London students are getting ready for the Royal Wedding... the latest count is that two want classes and the rest want to watch the events!

Language in Group

2010-09-30T19:48:00.003Z

The big (and we mean BIG) news is that Language in London has joined with two schools in Dublin and Totnes to form the Language in Group.

Our new website www.languageingroup.com is now online and we'd love to know what you think.

From 01 January 2011 we will all be offering some new courses in these three wonderful locations.

Hope to see you soon.

Stuart Rubenstein

Principal

We win!

2010-07-09T14:52:00.002Z

English UK, representing the best language schools in the United Kingdom has taken the government to the High Court and won!!

Students from outside the European Union need a visa to study in Britain and for some reason our government designed a new law that you could only come here to study English if... you already spoke English!!!!

We all know that politicians are always the most intelligent people but this law was the most stupid thing we've ever heard of.

Today a judge decided it was ridiculous and the law has been removed!!!

Stuart Rubenstein

Principal

Summer is definitely here!

2010-07-09T14:48:00.003Z

Students enjoying the welcome drink at the pub on their first day!

Don't just take my word for it!

2010-04-06T07:33:00.003Z

A couple of weeks ago we had a wonderful group of students from Fuerteventura at Language in London. They came here on a study holiday with their teachers Carolina and David - and had a fantastic time.

Have a look at their photos (click here...) and you'll see some pictures of Language in London and their adventures in this city. You can also read about it on their blog.

We have lots of different groups visiting the school during the year - some coming for short language holidays and other doing longer programmes with work experience placements. This year our groups include high school students from Argentina, an English class with their teacher from Portugal, European Union "Leonardo" Lifelong Learning students from Spain, Italy, Germany and Denmark, teachers from Switzerland and psychoanalysts from Germany...

Have a good week,

Stuart Rubenstein

Principal

New Accommodation for 2010

2010-02-16T17:04:00.004Z

At Language in London we are always looking at new ways to make the experience better for our students.

This year you can choose to stay in our new studios - either a private apartment or sharing with other students from the school. We have two locations - Notting Hill and Kentish Town.

This accommodation is available from 01 May 2010 .... so you will have to book early to be the first to enjoy this experience.

Stuart Rubenstein

Principal

10 best places to visit in London

2009-10-20T11:13:00.002Z

We've had fantastic response from our students to the "10 best places to visit in London" question. Interestingly all the replies are on the Language in London Facebook page - so have a look there to see the best pubs, parks, museums, markets and much more.

I am very impressed with the creative ideas that our students. It proves that Language in London students really are the best!

Stuart Rubenstein
Principal

Facebook!!

2009-10-11T18:50:00.002Z

The post below for the top 10 places to visit in London has had a lot of replies on the Language in London Facebook group page. There are some fantastic suggestions from our students past and present. It's interesting to see the number of pubs in the lists! But there are also mentions for the parks, museums, theatres, galleries, shops and markets that make London the most wonderful place to live and study in.

And while I'm talking about Facebook... the group has 496 members at the moment... so let's get it to 500 as soon as possible.

Stuart Rubenstein
Principal

10 Best Places to Visit in London

2009-09-13T18:01:00.002Z

Now the summer is over I am going to concentrate in the blog on lists of "Ten Best...". Please let me know your ideas for lists or suggestions for the ones I post.

For the 10 Best Places to Visit in London I have chosen places that I love... because it's my list! If you disagree then you'll need to post a comment or send me an email. I've left three places empty for you...

1) Hampstead Heath / Kenwood House (London is famous for parks, so this is simply London at its best).
2) Lord's Cricket Ground (this is the home of cricket).
3) Frith Street, Soho (a coffee at Bar Italia, jazz at Ronnie Scott's)
4) Stamford Bridge (well... if you like football...)
5) Bloomsbury (the home of Language in London and all the literary history you can imagine... and not forgetting the British Museum).
6) The River Thames on the boat from Westminster to Greenwich
7) The Natural History Museum
8)
9)
10)

Stuart Rubenstein
Principal

We win!

2009-08-10T07:29:00.004Z

This weekend was the 1st Language School Summer Olympics in London.

We invited other schools to compete in Regents Park ... but more importantly it was a chance for a lot of international students to meet and have fun.

There were traditional events like the egg and spoon race as well as a football competition.

Thanks to the other schools (Wimbledon, ICE, SGI) for taking part and hope to do it all again next year.

The winning Language in London team who picked up the most points and won... a box of chocolates! Congratulations to all and thanks to Ricki for organising the afternoon.

Stuart Rubenstein
Principal

Congratulations!!

2009-07-31T10:37:00.003Z

Two ex-teachers from the school have become dads in the last couple of weeks. Congratualtions to Matt (now living in Italy) and Kyle (in Australia).

This gives me an excuse to publish a picture of Ben, now three and a half, on a recent trip to Leeds Castle.

Oh - and if you're going to be at the school next weekend (08 August) then don't forget to bring your running shoes because Language in London has challenged five other language schools to a Summer Olympics!

Stuart Rubenstein
Principal

Cambridge Exams

2009-07-02T13:29:00.002Z

If you want to take a Cambridge exam (First Certificate, Advanced, Proficiency), then you need to choose a school which has this logo.

At Language in London we have over 20 years experience preparing students for exams and this is why we have a high success rate.

Cambridge exams test your General English at each level - so you need to be good at speaking, listening, reading and writing.

Contact Language in London (info@languageinlondon.com) if you want some help and advice.

Regards,
Stuart Rubenstein
Principal

Summer in London 2009

2009-06-30T15:47:00.003Z

July and August are traditionally the busiest months at language schools and we are ready for all the students who are coming to study with us.

At Language in London we know we need to get 4 things right to help you have a wonderful experience.

The course must be good because you want to improve your English!
The accommodation must be good... you will spend more hours in your accommodation than at school.
The social activities must be good because you also want to have fun.
The support must be good at all the times you need help.

In this blog I just want to mention point 3 - the social activities.

We have such a range of things to do that it is impossible for you to be bored. There's everything from Shakespeare plays to a summer olympics with other London schools. We'll take you to concerts, on walks, to places of cultural interest and on picnics. You can try our "Mission Impossible" and even get to see Steve, the Director of Studies, singing with the BBC Choir at the Royal Albert Hall!

I'll post pictures over the next few weeks of all the fun things that everyone is doing.

Stuart Rubenstein
Principal

A tall story...

2009-05-17T18:20:00.003Z

Recently back from a week in the United Arab Emirates (Abu Dhabi and Dubai) attending a workshop for English UK language schools and agents from around the region. Hopefully this will result in more students to come to England and have the wonderful Language in London experience.

It was a great time and fascinating to see a part of the world that is so different to what I am used to in London. One minute you are in the desert looking at camels and the next you can see the (almost finished) tallest building in the world. And when I say tall I mean ENORMOUS!
Thanks to all the great people I met and hope to see you again.

Stuart Rubenstein
Principal

1,000,000 words!!!

2009-05-06T10:34:00.002Z

If you find it difficult learning English vocabulary then don't read this article!

The Global Language Monitor in the USA records the number of new words in the English language and estimates that everyday there are 15 new ones! They are now doing a countdown until the 1,000,000 English word and it is only days away.

There are some interesting articles on their website such as "when does a word become a word?".

At Language in London we will help you increase your vocabulary but we now know you will need to learn at least 15 new words a day to keep up with the ever-increasing list of new words.

Good luck!

Stuart Rubenstein
Principal

How long is an hour?

2009-02-26T15:25:00.003Z

Seriously... how long is an hour?

Most students book courses by time: 15 hours per week, three hours of individual lessons etc etc. But how long is that hour you pay for?

Be careful... be very careful.

Most schools are a little naughty and confuse the people who are booking the courses.
There are two techniques they use to make the course seem longer and give you less... and most schools use both techniques!

1) The 20 Lessons Per Week Course
This is the trick schools use to make you think that you are buying a longer course. 20 lesson courses are usually 15 hours per week and all the school has done is pretend a lesson is 45 minutes (20 x 45 = 900 minutes = 15 hours). Of course, 20 makes you think you are buying more than 15.

2) The 15 Hour Per Week Course
Be careful here too! You need to check if 15 hours really is 15 hours. If the timetable is 0900 to 1200 you would imagine three hours per day of classes... but then many schools put a break in the middle (sometimes half an hour!) and you only end up studying for 12.5 hours per week.

I know some schools where a one hour 1-to-1 lesson is only 50 minutes! Now, that's confusing.

So... when you compare the prices of one school to another it is very difficult to know what you will really get for your money.

At Language in London, when we say a course is 15 hours we mean 15 hours and you study with your teacher for 15 hours!

It's clear, it's simple and it's honest.

Stuart Rubenstein
Principal

BECAS MEC - message for our Spanish students!

2009-02-24T16:13:00.002Z

This year the Spanish government are giving over 20,000 grants to Spanish university students to come and do an English language course (BECAS MEC).
There is more information here: Language in London BECAS MEC and you can also contact the school directly and we will explain more to you.

The grant will help you come to London and take a 3-week English course so... don't wait... apply!

Stuart Rubenstein
Principal

Three weeks...

2009-02-10T12:08:00.003Z

It's been three weeks since I wrote something on this blog and so much has happened!

London has had its worst weather for over 20 years and been covered in snow. We're really not prepared for conditions like that and the whole city seemed to close with no buses or underground. It was great fun though and there were nearly as many snowmen as real people for a couple of days.

This winter we are offering our students a weekly party at a London club. All the top London schools have joined together so that on Thursday nights there is free entry to students. Reports are that it is a great evening. This week is the Valentine's party ... so there should be some good stories on Friday morning!

And I must also tell you that after 20 years of English teaching, the school has now started its first Spanish course, which takes place on Tuesday evenings. I'm in the class as a student and loving every minute!!

Chau!

Stuart Rubenstein
Principal

It doesn't look like a summer holiday!

2009-01-20T11:34:00.002Z

This is our wonderful group of students from Argentina who are here for three weeks doing Cultural Experience and General English. Apart from studying English they are filling their time with lots of activities - walking tours, day trip to Bath, museum visits and four lucky ones even managed to get to see a Chelsea football match!

Next week they'll return to Argentina and summer temperatures of 30 degrees but will leave us with warm memories of a happy, enthusiastic and fun bunch of students.

Stuart Rubenstein
Principal

It's freezing in London!

2009-01-07T15:05:00.005Z

It's so cold this month... they say the coldest for over 20 years.

I thought I would warm everyone up with some pictures from André, who was at Language in London a few months ago... when the sun was shining!

And on the subject of photos... you should see the ones on the school FACEBOOK page.

Stuart Rubenstein
Principal

A winter wonderland...

2008-12-10T11:43:00.003Z

Yesterday, Rob took over 20 students on his annual ice skating Christmas afternoon. After the physical effort (and a lot of falling over), everyone went to see the famous Christmas lights in Regents Street and have a hot chocolate in Liberty's.

It might be cold in London at this time of year but there is a very special feeling in the air.

Happy Skating!

Stuart Rubenstein
Principal

Valencia!

2008-11-26T14:14:00.003Z

Just got back from a few wonderful days in Valencia at the annual meeting of Tandem International. This is a network of innovative schools in Europe and the Americas, which offer different and interesting programmes to students who want to learn English, Italian, French, German or Spanish.

Our hosts at the event were Eva, Fernando and Maxi from Taronja School, who treated us all like royalty and fed us the most delicious food. I'll never forget the paella that Fernando prepared!

All of the schools in the network are similar to Language in London: number of classrooms, quality of language courses etc. and so when we meet we spend time discussing how to look after our students and give them the best language learning experience in the world.

Thanks to Henning from Tandem Hamburg for the photos and I look forward to seeing everyone again next year when we meet in Berlin!

Stuart Rubenstein
Principal

You can't miss the school!

2008-11-18T15:14:00.008Z

It's taken some time but now we have our window and street signs - so that everyone knows where Language in London is.

Our unmistakeable speech bubbles and pink and blue colours mean you will easily find the school on your first day or when you want to visit us just to say hello.

Thanks to our students Daniel, Ilaria, Nicolas, Fernando and Sascha for being the stars of this photo shoot, "Students outside Language in London." You can be sure that they were paid very well for their work!

Stuart Rubenstein
Principal

We'll miss you, Ursula...

2008-11-10T09:18:00.002Z

9th from the left or 10th from the right... that's our Ursuala... in the middle of a lovely leaving party on her last day at school.

Urusla arrived from Brazil at the end of February 2008 speaking absolutely no English. She started with some one-to-one lessons and then moved to the General English group classes... moving from beginner to elementary to pre-intermediate to intermediate. As she got more confident with the language she made more friends in the school, which is why so many people were sad to see her go last Friday.

I'd just like to say congratualations for making so much progress and for being so dedicated.

Stuart Rubenstein
Principal

I am so sorry!!!!

2008-10-21T12:01:00.002Z

I haven't posted anything on this blog for a month... and I am sorry!

The only excuse that I have is that I have been working so hard. Do you believe me?

At this time of year... after the busy summer season... all my energy is about preparing for the following year. My plans for 2009 are to visit Spain, Italy, Germany, Dubai and Brazil on marketing trips. A language school without students is no good... so I have to go out there to find the students!

In 2009 we have a special new system where our students can design their own course so that it is a unique programme. I've started to put these details on www.langaugeinlondon.com but I still have some work to do there.

And finally... there will be more regular posts on here.... I promise.

Stuart Rubenstein
Principal

2008-09-05T15:43:00.002Z

This is Beatrice (left), with her wonderful group of Italian students. They've just finished a two week course at Langauge in London - and are going home full of passion for learning English.

Although the weather has been awful for most of their stay and they lived on a daily diet of sandwiches... they were a great bunch... always smiling and very positive.

Stuart Rubenstein
Principal

2008-08-29T12:04:00.002Z

There are two facebook groups for old and new students. You can find old friends, leave messages, look through the photos...

Language in London (2007 - )
Camden College of English (1989 - 2007)

I only started the Language in London group last week, so pass on the information to any students who have been at the school in the last 12 months.

For those who don't know, the school used to be called Camden College of English and was in Camden Town. We moved to central London last summer and changed name to Language in London.

Join both groups and be part of the history of this wonderful English school!

Stuart Rubenstein
Principal

Hello, goodbye, hello, goodbye....

2008-08-29T10:16:00.003Z

Firstly, I have to say sorry for not updating the blog recently. It's been a very busy summer (the best ever!), and I just haven't had a minute to do this.

I want to publicly thank our two extra helpers, who are both leaving this week having worked at the school in July and August. Ricki has become a folk hero at the school, leading all the social activities from football to classical concerts to London walking tours to evenings in the pub. He is going back to university, ready to continue his degree in Business Studies at Nottingham.

Our second helper, Anna, has spent six weeks working in the office with us. She is from Germany and studying to be a European secretary (fluent in three languages). She has tried everything... helping students, telephone enquiries, replying to emails, organising the coffee breaks, dealing with all the questions... and she's done it all with a big smile and wonderful English!
So... a big thank you to Ricki and Anna... you've both helped to make the school a happy place this summer.

Stuart Rubenstein
Principal

Thanks for a great time...!

2008-07-30T10:32:00.007Z

Elvira, one of our students this summer, only returned home a few days ago after finishing her English course but she misses London and all the friends she made here.

Thanks for sending these pictures... and don't forget you are welcome here at any time because Language in London is your home in London!

Elvira with Ian, one of her teachers.

Elvira with Alejandra in the office.

A gang of students in Regents Park.

Friends in class.

More friends in class.

Stuart Rubenstein
Principal

Where were you in 1998?

2008-07-21T13:50:00.004Z

Just received these photos from Pavel, a student who was at the school in 1998. If you are in one of the pictures... please let me know!

The person talking in the second picture is Greg... he was a teacher and also arranged the weekly frisbee games.... where are you now Greg????
If you have any photos of your time at Language in London / Camden College of English please send them by email and I'll put them up on the blog.

Stuart Rubenstein
Principal

Oh, I do like to be beside the seaside...

2008-07-16T08:22:00.006Z

Alejandra, the hardest working person on earth, spends every day answering student emails, arranging accommodation and helping everyone. For those who don't know, she originally came to London as an English language student in 1998 when the school was called Camden College of English.
She has been working here now for 6 years and has helped the school grow and develop. I have to say that Ale loves London but there is one other place in England that is also in her heart and that is Brighton.
Every year, Ale takes a group of students down to Brighton to swim in the sea, visit the Grand Pavillion, eat fish and chips and have fun.
Here are some pictures from last weekend's day trip... and it shows that learning English is not just about sitting in a classroom but about trying everything!

So... take a leaf out of Ale's book and be positive and you will have a fantastic time when you come here to study.

Stuart Rubenstein
Principal

Follow Ricki!

2008-07-14T16:42:00.003Z

The simple advice for all students this summer is FOLLOW RICKI!

Ricki (centre in the white t-shirt), who has just finished his first year at Nottingham university, is working at the school in July and August arranging all the social activities. Here he is with some of the new students at a welcome party.

This week there will be a lot of FOLLOW RICKI activities, including a walking tour of London, a visit to the law courts at the Old Bailey, a picnic in Trafalgar Square listening to an opera, and of course... a pub crawl!

After a week of rain, it looks like the weather for the next few days is going to be good, so I'm sure there will also be some football and cricket in the park. But whatever you do, don't forget to FOLLOW RICKI!

Stuart Rubenstein
Principal

15 - love

2008-06-26T16:56:00.003Z

It's summer and that means Rob's annual pilgrimage to Wimbledon - the home of tennis. Our group of students queued for three hours to get in ("Rob! How much longer? Rob! Will we get in? Rob! Rob!").

After all the hard work (standing and talking to other students!) they finally got in and saw two different games and had a fantastic time. These are the memories of London that will stay with these guys forever... a long time after they have forgotten the vocabulary and grammar we've taught them!

Wonderful, wonderful Zone 4

2008-06-25T08:12:00.003Z

As I spend an hour on the tube every day getting to and from work (zone 4 to zone 1 and back again .... for my zonally obsessed friends!), I use the two 30-minute portions of undeground space and time as well as possible.

Most days I just get out a book and celebrate the opportunity to read in peace. When I get home it's bath time for Ben, eating together, reading him a story and then collapsing! So the tube journey really is my only chance to read.

The temptation is to pick up one of the free papers The London Paper, London Lite, or Metro - but they're all awful and to be honest, there's only so much I need to know about Amy Winehouse, Britney and all the other celebrity disaster cases.

This month I've enjoyed two very different books... firstly, "The Damned United" by David Peace. It's a fictional account of the time when Brian Clough was manager of Leeds United in the 70s. It's much more than a trite football story and I highly recommend it.

A few days ago I finished Naomi Klein's "The Shock Doctrine" and I'm still absorbing and digesting it. As a journalist, she has a wonderful way of linking history and economics in Chile, Argentina, China, Bolivia, Mexico, South Africa, Poland, Russia, the UK, Israel and Lebanon before leading us to Iraq, Tsunami hit Asia and New Orleans after Hurricane Katrina. Her analysis focuses on free market shock policies and Milton Friedman's Chicago School of economics and leaves you in no doubt of the harm that has been caused in every corner of the world. Give it a go!

The last word has to be... how lucky I am to have this special time on the underground every day. If I lived close to the school then I would never have the time or space to read!

Stuart Rubenstein
Principal

No England, No Stress

2008-06-23T09:49:00.004Z

I am enjoying the Euro 2008 competiton so much. The football is quite good (not amazing, not terrible) but more than anything there is no stress. I don't really care who wins and I don't really care who loses. Penalties are fun and there's even a bit of pleasure watching the distraught, devastated fans of the country that has been knocked out.

This is football without England, without all the media hype, without all the pressure and without the expectations. And I love it!

If your country is still in the competition... good luck!

Stuart Rubenstein
Prinicpal

The most dangerous game in the world!

2008-06-20T12:47:00.002Z

Reading this blog, you will know that I love football. But there is nothing better than watching or playing cricket during the summer. Students are always telling us that the game is boring... that it's only for the upper classes... that it has something to do with the British Empire...

Well, many years ago I stopped trying to convert people. If that's what you think, well, that's what you think!

Fortunately, I have somebody at the school who I can chat to about cricket and that's our Director of Studies, Rob.
Last weekend he managed to break his arm playing!

And don't make the mistake of confusing cricket with croquet

These are very different games!!

Stuart Rubenstein
Principal

Blog to blog

2008-06-17T10:31:00.003Z

I promised more news about the Spanish group... well, you can follow what they are doing on their trip on their London Blog. It's in Catalan but there are enough photos if you have problems with the language.

Looking at the pictures of the red phone boxes, horseguards and buses you'll see that it is unmistakeably London.

The best part, of course, is the smiling faces.

Stuart Rubenstein
Principal

Romeos and Juliets

2008-06-16T11:10:00.003Z

Here are our Romeos and Juliets from Viladecavalls near Barcelona. These students are in London because they won a competition arranged by the Catalan government to produce a project on the Shakespeare play.

They'll spend two weeks here studying and speaking as much English as possible. They are also going to visit Bath, Stonehenge, Oxford and Shakespeare's birthplace Stratford-upon-Avon.

Next week we are hoping that they are going to perform some scenes from Romeo and Juliet... more to follow on that!

Stuart Rubenstein
Principal

Everyone is welcome!

2008-06-12T16:18:00.003Z

This week we've had a wonderful English course for 15 psychoanalysts from Germany (pictured with teachers Rebecca and Ash), preparing for their annual conference in London. Studying six hours a day, they looked at academic papers, presentations, social English and a bit of grammar. And they finished the course with an analysis of Shakespeare's King Lear before going to the Globe to see the play.

Some of them attended last year, so it was a pleasure to welcome back some familiar faces as well as meeting some new people.

No two weeks are ever the same in a language school, as we say goodbye to the psychoanalysts we are preparing to welcome over 30 seventeen-year-olds from Spain on Monday!

Moans about Zones

2008-06-11T14:42:00.006Z

Why are all our students so obsessed with London's zones?

I have no idea about the different areas of Madrid, Rio or Seoul. I couldn't tell you which part of Tokyo is the best to live in or where I should stay in Berlin. Is it good to be in the north of Rome or the south? I haven't got a clue!

And yet our students are always asking us for accommodation which MUST be in zone 1 or 2. Do they really know London?

So, maybe what everyone needs is an explanation of the zones!

Firstly, I have never met a Londoner who has ever mentioned zones. Seriously, if you ask someone from London where they live the answer will be: Finchley or Ealing or Clapham or Hackney. Nobody will ever say, "I live in zone 3."

The zones are just concentric circles designed by London underground to make it easier to have different fares for the underground and buses. Nothing more and nothing less.

And yet our students are convinced that zone 1 is heaven and zone 5 is hell!!

London is an enormous city, the biggest in Europe, and it is not designed to be nice in the middle and worse the further out you move!

There are some lovely parts of zone 2 and some which you wouldn't want to stay in and I can say the same about zone 4 (where I live!).

I'm sure that what our students really mean is that they don't want a long journey or to use public transport... but that's part of the fun of being in such a big city. Or maybe they think that the "centre" of London is the only place to visit. Of course, London makes things even more confusing by having two centres; the City and the West End.

The best way of thinking of London is to imagine lots of little villages squashed together. Each village is self-contained and has its shops, pubs and restaurant... and each has its own very special atmosphere. So, Chelsea, Hoxton, Westminster, Hampstead, Brixton and Golders Green are all parts of London that you may or may not want to visit or stay in... but not because of the zone but because of what makes them interesting.

My advice... stop moaning about zones, stop thinking that London begins and ends at Piccadilly Circus and fall in love with this great big, messy, noisy, busy, wonderful city!!

Stuart Rubenstein
Principal

London is so cheap!

2008-06-10T07:31:00.004Z

Are you visiting London this summer? Maybe you are coming to the UK as a tourist or to take an English course at a school like Language in London.

When you pack your suitcase... don't bring with you all the stereotypes about how expensive this city is. The first thing to remember is that all the major museums are free! This is our present to all visitors to London. You can go to the British Museum, British Library, Science Museum, Tate Gallery, National Gallery, Natural History Museum... and not spend one penny!

You should also go to one night of the BBC Proms. This is the biggest musical festival in the world and takes place in the beautiful Royal Albert Hall. Every night there is a different concert, mostly classical, and it costs only £5.

And if you want a taste of real English culture then go to the Shakespeare Globe theatre, where tickets are also only £5. This summer you can see King Lear, A Midsummer's Night Dream and the Merry Wives of Windsor.

As a passionate Londoner, I want our students to experience all these things, which is why our Cultural Experience programme is a language course where all the lessons take place in London's museums and galleries... a great way to be a student and a tourist at the same time.

I'll keep you posted with reports of all the great things we will arrange for our students this summer as extra social activities.

Regards,
Stuart Rubenstein
Principal

Happy Birthday!!!!

2008-06-03T08:29:00.003Z

Yes, this week we celebrate our first anniversary at 42 Bloomsbury Street. For those who don't know, the school used to be called Camden College of English and was in a small building in north London for nearly 20 years. In June 2007 we moved to our elegant new home in central London and changed the name of the school to Language in London.
From the first day we moved here I knew we had made the right decision. There's more space, enormous windows making the rooms very bright, a lovely garden backing on to the British Museum, a spacious internet cafe for our students...

You can see more photos of our English language school in London here - and, of course, you are welcome to visit at any time!

Stuart Rubenstein
Principal

Chelsea

2008-05-22T10:57:00.002Z

This is all I can write... last night was soul-destroying... to see John Terry, Mr. Chelsea, slip when taking his penalty was... well... it was... I can't describe it!

For the next week I'm not going to read a newspaper or watch the news. I don't want to hear anything about the match.

I am going to concentrate only on family and Language in London. Nothing else!

So... don't talk to me about football.

Stuart Rubenstein
Principal

Speaking English... the bubble, the logo...

2008-05-19T14:18:00.002Z

It's now one year since our new Language in London logo was designed. And I still love it.The speech bubble is a simple idea but it expresses perfectly the idea of a language school... this is a place to SPEAK!

In every room of the school there are bubbles painted in different colours and every room there's a lot of talking... so they must work.

Stuart Rubenstein
Principal

English UK

2008-05-15T07:41:00.003Z

Yesterday was the AGM and Spring conference for English UK, the national association of accredited English language centres.

It's always good to meet up with representatives from other schools and share thoughts and ideas about our "industry". The biggest discussion was on new visa requirements for students from outside the European Union, which will become law in 2009.

I also attended interesting sessions on the student market in Turkey and Russia.

It made me realise how important it is to spend some time away from my desk. I usually spend far too many hours every day staring at my computer. Time to change my work habits!

Stuart Rubenstein
Principal

Old Friends #2

2008-05-12T08:59:00.004Z

Maria (standing at the back) was in my class in '98 and visited London last week. We met up for breakfast in Primrose Hill but didn't have much of a chance to talk because Ben wanted to run everywhere.

When I look at some of our competition in London - the big schools which are usually part of a chain, with 200 or more students at any one time and lots and lots of teachers, I wonder what it is like to study or work in such a place.

The simple question is... if you come back to visit in ten years time will anybody remember you? At Language in London we believe that the school is part of the experience and not just the place where you study.

I know that if I was choosing somewhere to study, I'd prefer small and friendly to a school that is like a great big corporate language factory!

Stuart Rubenstein
Principal

Old Friends

2008-05-06T08:04:00.004Z

On Friday we had a visit from two friends from Moscow, Olga and Marina. When they first came to the school about 8 years ago they were inseparable friends and it's good to see that nothing has changed!

They missed seeing Rob, their "old" teacher, because he was climbing in Wales... so they will have to come back and say hello again soon!

Stuart Rubenstein
Principal

Proud to be Blue!

2008-05-01T08:23:00.003Z

In a previous post I talked about 2008 being the 20th anniversary of my becoming an English teacher. Anyone who's been in one of my classes or remembers me through Language in London / Camden College of English knows that my lifelong obsession is Chelsea Football Club. And this love of Chelsea has dominated my life since I was 5!!

Last night, at Stamford Bridge, we watched the mighty Blues beat Liverpool to get to the Champions League final. Getting into work this morning, I've read every newspaper report online, sent emails to a few friends, checked prices for getting to the final in Moscow and just smiled a lot. At some stage I need to think about work!

Come on you blues!

Stuart Rubenstein
Principal

It was 20 years ago....

2008-04-28T08:13:00.003Z

Well, what were you doing 20 years ago?

I can clearly remember Spring 1988... I had been working on a local newspaper which suddenly went bust and I found myself out of work. There was good weather that year because I spent a lot of time playing frisbee in the park with Martin, a friend of mine. I knew I had to find another job and so I decided to do a training course for teaching English as a foreign language. My dad gave me the money for the course and I've never looked back.

The training was fantastic although I was very nervous when I had to stand up in front of a group of students and "teach" for the first time. I didn't know then that I was going to spend my life in language schools - as a teacher, a school owner, a course designer etc. etc...

But here I am, 20 years later, still passionate about the world of language learning and still working hard to make my school - Language in London - the best possible place to experience learning English in the UK.

More thoughts on the last 20 years in the next few postings on this blog!

Stuart Rubenstein
Principal

A return ticket to the present perfect please.

2008-04-01T08:05:00.003Z

I'm sure the insurance would be very high and maybe it wouldn't be too comfortable but I like the idea of having a "Language in London" bus and travelling round with a group of students learning English!

I also like the idea of learning English on walking / camping holidays... or just talking about things you like. We have a new course this summer called "British Books and Films" and the idea is just to create a relaxed atmosphere to chat about interesting subjects (with a teacher there to help, correct, point in the right direction, support etc).

Let me know if you have any creative ideas about good ways of learning a language. We're open to anything here!

Regards,
Stuart Rubenstein

Language in London courses...

2008-03-18T09:38:00.003Z

I just want to remind you to send your application in for the following courses because when they are full ... they are full!

Part-time Evening
Our evening classes are very popular with people who are living and working in London. You can study 1, 2 or 3 evenings per week and take any of our 12-week courses: English for Work, IELTS preparation, General English / Cambridge. The next courses begin on 08 April.

Cultural Experience
If you want to take our wonderful Cultural Experience then we have limited spaces on this one-week course on 14 April and 26 May. This is the course where all the lessons take place in London's museums and galleries. A perfect way to improve your speaking and build vocabulary.

Summer 2008
July, August and September - summer is coming and we have the best selection of courses ever!

Cultural Experience
General English + Conversation
IELTS intensive
Cambridge exam preparation
English for Work

If you want help choosing the right course please email info@languageinlondon.com.

Stuart Rubenstein
Principal

English Teaching Innovation Awards

2008-03-07T09:08:00.005Z

Last night was the Oscars for the English teaching world when the British Council "ELTONS" were presented for innovation. As you may remember, two years ago we became the first school in the world to win and so I know how nervous the 12 final nominees felt sitting through dinner waiting to find out who were successful in 2008.

I am one of the judges for these awards and was very happy that my three choices were all the winners. For me innovation is when I go... "I wish I had thought of that! It's so simple, so obvious."

The winners were Oxford University Press for ‘Bookworms Club Reading Circles’ and two BBC entries, one for their student / teacher blogs and one for their weekly soap oprea for learners, Flatmates.

Take some time and have a look at the BBC links - I genuinely believe that these will really help learners all over the world improve their English. And they're free!

It's great to know that in our "industry" of English language teaching there are creative and enthusiastic people who are dedicated to making learning easier and more fun for all the learners out there. Keep up the good work!!

Regards,
Stuart Rubenstein

I want to learn English!

2008-02-29T12:49:00.004Z

As you know, Language in London / Camden College of English is always number one when it comes to innovation in learning English.

We have something new and something special for ex-students and people who have never been to the school.

We are offering an online e-learning programme where you can be part of the school, connected to our teachers and students and have the chance to improve your English. You can buy this programme for 1, 3 or 12 months.

Have a look at E-LEARNING for more information and a video presentation.

If you are taking a full-time course at the school this year and pay your fees + registration fee then you will automatically have 12 months e-learning.

You can't say "I don't have time to learn" or "I don't know what to do to improve my English" - this programme has everything you need!

Regards,
Stuart Rubenstein
Principal

Camden Fire

2008-02-26T10:45:00.003Z

Sorry I haven't posted for a little while. No excuse, just been busy!

A lot of students have written to ask about the fire in Camden. The photos (see the one above from the BBC) were very dramatic and reports around the world seem to be saying that the market had been destroyed. I was in the area on the weekend (taking Ben to London Zoo) and saw that one pub had burned down and a small part of the market needs to be rebuilt. So, for lovers of Camden Market... don't worry! In my opinion the current project of "rebuilding" the market with lots of shops instead of the traditional stalls is much more damaging and is destroying the soul of the place.
I also saw that the old school building, our home for nearly 20 years, is now an art gallery!

Stuart Rubenstein
Principal

Just enough time to say bonjour...

2008-01-30T08:48:00.000Z

Last Thursday, Greta and I went to Paris for a friend's wedding. We arrived in the city at around 6 pm and got on a crowded metro train at Gare du Nord. Squashed in with all the commuters going home after a day's work, I looked up to see a girl smiling at me...

It only took one second for me to realise who it was. Claire!

Back in 1999, in the old school in Camden, I was teaching one of the nicest ever groups of students. It was one of those classes that just clicked. Everyone got on well with each other, there was lots of laughter and learning and even the teacher (me!!) looked forward to the lessons every day.

Others in the class included Luana, Francesca, Serge, Jitka...

Claire must have been 18 or 19 at the time and was very shy when she arrived in London as an au pair. Bumping into her on the metro only gave us a few quick minutes to say hello and catch up. It was wonderful to see a confident Claire who is now... a teacher!

It's great to find out what happened to ex-students - if you want me to put your story on this blog for others to read then send me an email via the school website.

Regards,
Stuart Rubenstein

Happy Birthday!

2008-01-17T13:41:00.001Z

Today is Ben's second birthday - I can't believe how time has flown. We opened presents this morning and had a special birthday breakfast. It's easy to see what I bought him!!

Now I'm at work and preparing the tests for 35 new students who are starting our General English evening class .... but I'd rather be in the park playing football with my little boy!

Stuart Rubenstein

This is the BBC...

2008-01-14T16:28:00.000Z

As Principal of an English language school and a blogger, I'm pleased to see that the BBC is using blogs to help students learn English.

They have students and teachers blogging, helping each other with the language and discussing lots of different topics. I love resources like this because they're easy to use, open to everyone and free. You can't ask for more than that.

Have a look at BBC student / teacher blogs ... and get involved!

Stuart Rubenstein

Help!!!

2008-01-11T11:58:00.000Z

We are starting to build our new website at www.languageinlondon.com. At the moment, it just links to the old www.camdencollege.com one but we have big plans for the new site!

I'd like to ask you... old students, current students, potential new students and friends of the school... what would you like to find on a language school website? What are the important features for you?

And I have another request...

We are planning to have the site in at least 15 different languages. So what I need to know is what are the key words and phrases you would use on google in your language if you were looking for a English course in the UK. (Think about the type of course you want, the location, and anything else relevant).

Please, please, please send this information to the school's email, which you can find at www.languageinlondon.com and put your name and nationality. I'll make sure that everyone who helps has an official online thank-you!!!

Well, that's your homework. Don't forget to do it!

Have a good weekend.

Stuart Rubenstein

New year, new faces...

2008-01-07T08:38:00.000Z

Last week was a little quiet as our students slowly began to come back to school. This morning there are a lot of new faces and the buzz is back.

We know it can be a little nerve-wracking arriving at a language school on the first day (are they expecting me? will I understand what they say? how do I introduce myself? how will they know what my level is?).

For many students, coming to study English in London is not just about studying English... whether they are coming for one or 48 weeks, this is a great opportunity to meet people from many different countries, make new friends and have a once-in-a-lifetime experience.

I get emails from ex-students every week and they always tell me that they are still in contact with a number of people who were in their class. On the school's Facebook page there are students who were here this summer... and some who were students at Camden College of English more than 15 years ago!

I always believe that a language school is the easiest place to meet people and make friends. All you need to say is, "Hi, my name is.................., where are you from?" and a conversation begins.

So.... if your new year's resolution is to improve your language skills and meet some new people... you know where to go!

Regards,
Stuart Rubenstein

Happy New Year!!!

2007-12-28T15:55:00.000Z

Wow.... what a year 2007 has been. After so many years the school finally moved to Bloomsbury and has changed names from Camden College of English to Language in London.

Now we're looking ahead to a wonderful 2008 and the opportunity to welcome new students who will become new friends.

On behalf of the teachers and staff at Camden College of English, I would like to wish a happy, healthy and peaceful year to all those we know and all those we are still to meet.

Have fun and see you in 2008!

Stuart Rubenstein

Exam week!!

2007-12-11T09:13:00.000Z

I just want to wish our wonderful students ... GOOD LUCK because this week some of them are taking Cambridge English exams (First Certificate, Advanced and Proficiency).

These are difficult exams, which students have been preparing for since September. There are five papers (speaking, listening, reading, writing, use of English), and the students need to get a minimum of 60% to pass.
Sometimes I think that both teachers and students spend too long on worrying about how to pass the exam rather than how to be better at English. However, that might be because I never liked exams when I was at school!

There is no doubt that having an exam at the end of a course does motivate most students - and that must be a good thing.

Of course, it's true that our courses and these exams really can make a difference to someone's life. This week I received a lovely email from an old student in response to this blog. Anne (or, Nanou, as she was called), was at the school nearly 10 years ago. She wrote to say that she is working now as a Clinical Research Associate in Paediatrics in Paris. Nanou took the highest Cambridge exam and tells us, "I must say that it was my English that really made the difference when I was hired ... So thank you very much. It's partly thanks to you and the school that I have a great job I really like!"

Thanks Nanou!

Hopefully, over the next few years we'll hear some success stories about the students who are sitting their exams this week.

Regards,
Stuart Rubenstein

Skating and Pantomime...

2007-12-05T17:44:00.000Z

While I was stuck at my computer all day yesterday... Rob (director of studies) and the students were having the most fantastic winter afternoon in London.

Here are my favourite pictures... I think it clearly shows that coming to London to take an English course is really NOT just about the present perfect simple!!

Happy skating!
Stuart Rubenstein

I wish I were a student at Language in London

2007-12-04T08:44:00.000Z

Of course, every day is a wonderful day at Language in London... but today is something special!

We've planned a magical winter experience to start at lunchtime, after the morning lessons.

Firstly, Rob is taking a group students ice skating at Somerset House, which is a wonderful building just by the river Thames. After skating (and hot chocolate!), everyone is going up to Regent Street for some Christmas shopping. This means Hamleys - the best toy shop in London and then Libertys, which is a wonderful store and the perfect place for our students to get something for mum!

By this time it will be getting dark and everyone will be able to enjoy the famous Regent Street lights, which attract millions of visitors every December.

After the shopping, it will be time to head to the theatre for a pantomime. Now most people think that this means actors miming, or not speaking. But actually, pantomime in English is something completely different. This is one of our great traditions and the easiest way of describing it is... theatre for children (and big children!).

Generally, pantomimes tell traditional stories like Snow White, Sleeping Beauty and Cinderella, as well as some English tales that are not universally known. In all pantomimes there is a lot of audience participation and every one has a fantastic time.

We have chosen to go to see Dick Whittington, which was first staged in 1814 and is a story about the Lord Mayor of London... and his cat!

Hopefully we'll have lots of pictures of the day to post on here... but while everyone is skating, shopping and at the theatre... I hope they think of me sitting here working in the office!!

Have fun!

Stuart Rubenstein

Where are you now....?

2007-11-28T10:38:00.001Z

Yesterday I was chatting online to an ex-student, Maria Bernardes from Brazil. She was in my class in '98 and is now an English teacher in Barcelona.

That got me thinking...

I'd love to put together a list of students from Camden College of English / Language in London with some simple information for all to share and see.

Name:
Country:
Dates at Camden College of English / Language in London:
Where you are now:
What you are doing now:

Of course, we have our Facebook and Orkut pages but it would also be good if we had a community of our own.

Send your details to this blog or directly to me if you prefer.

Regards,
Stuart Rubenstein

What's happening today...?

2007-11-21T09:53:00.000Z

I thought it would be interesting to let you know about what happens in a typical day at Language in London. It's 0955 now... and the day looks very full.

Firstly, the English lessons all started at 0915. Some of our students are getting a bit nervous because they are preparing for Cambridge exams (First Certificate, Advanced, Proficiency) and the speaking tests are this week.

We are also hosting a workshop today for SOAS, which is one of the colleges of the University of London. The session today is on reading skills for early-years learners.

This afternoon, Caroline, our photographer, is coming to take some more photos for our new brochure and website. The sky is blue and we don't want to miss this opportunity.

Later today, I'm going to be looking at a new development for the online e-learning programme we give to our students. This is one of the exciting projects that Language in London is involved in to make the learning experience better for our students.

At 1800, the evening students will start arriving for their IELTS class and I will be ready to go home and watch the England - Croatia game on the tv!

Hope you have a good day.

Stuart Rubenstein

Tandem International at Language in London

2007-11-19T13:58:00.000Z

What a busy weekend!

This year, Language in London was host to over 20 language schools from across Europe (France, Germany, Ireland, Italy, Spain) and Canada - all members of the Tandem International network. As schools, we all have a common interest in indepence, quality and innovation.

On Friday we had workshops in the morning, where representatives from each school shared ideas on marketing, websites, quality control and European Union initiatives. In the afternoon we invited some agents to visit the school and learn about all the schools.

On Saturday we held our Annual General Meeting and discussed the exciting future of our group.

The best thing about these meetings is that it is a chance to meet other people - friends - who run schools, care about their students and want to offer the best possible language courses.

If you are interested in learning English, Spanish, French, Italian or German... then we probably have the school and course for you. Please have a look at http://www.tandem-schools.com/ and get in touch with the schools directly.

Here are some photos from the event.

Regards,
Stuart Rubenstein

Nearly 10,000!

2007-11-09T12:14:00.000Z

Since I added the counter we've had nearly 10,000 hits. I know that lots of ex-students read this blog (they tell me in emails) and so do future students (it's useful to find out more about the school).
However, the most important reader is my mother-in-law in Buenos Aires! She checks every day to see the latest news from the school ... so, Marta, I hope you like the picture below of your little grandson and that you are looking forward to coming to visit us in December.

Hope you all have a wonderful weekend.

Stuart Rubenstein

Berlin - a tourist guide.

2007-11-08T11:10:00.000Z

I've just got back from four days in Berlin at a big education workshop. The purpose is to meet agents from all over the world, present the school (during 20-minute appointments), which hopefully will result in the agents promoting our courses to students who will choose our school. I think I gave over 45 presentations!

So... my guide to the city of Berlin is as follows:
Arrived Sunday lunchtime and took taxi to hotel.
Left Wednesday morning.
In between, all I did was work. Even during meals, it was work, work, work. In fact, all I saw was this view from my table in the exhibition hall!
The only time I left the hotel was to find a bar on Tuesday evening to watch the Chelsea game.

I'm a little embarrassed that I saw nothing of such an interesting city. I will definitely have to return as a tourist and see everything. So... sorry Berlin!

The worst bit about being away was missing Benjamin (and Greta, of course!). It was "only" four days but it felt like it was a lot longer.
Regards,
Stuart Rubenstein

Something old, something new...

2007-11-02T09:55:00.000Z

I've been trying to arrange the photos I have stored on my computer - there are 1000s of them! I think this is my favourite of 2007.

The picture is of a group of students going to see a play at Shakespeare's Globe Theatre with one of our teachers. You can see St. Paul's Cathedral in the background but what you don't know is that the students are all looking ahead towards the Millennium Bridge, Tate Modern and the theatre. They are probably all wondering if they will understand one word of "The Merchant of Venice" and feeling very cultured!!

One thing I love about London is how old and new sit so peacefully next to each other. Red brick houses, Georgian mansions, modern glass towers... there is no single style that defines this city but the charm is found in co-existence. In others words, this is a cosmopolitan city architecturally as well as socially.

This weekend I'm off to a language school conference and workshop in Berlin. I've never been there before and hope I get the chance (when not working!) to see another European capital that is constantly changing.

Have a good weekend.

Stuart Rubenstein

2007-10-26T12:11:00.001Z

After so many years answering the phone, "Hello, Camden College of English...", we're all learning to say, "Hello, Language in London...".

I say the name of the school much more than I say my own name, so this is a big change!

I hope you like the new logo... when you visit the school you will see that we have painted speech bubbles in all the classrooms.

The new email addresses are now operating (....@languageinlondon.com), the brochure is nearly ready but we haven't made any progress with the website.

Lots to do (and when that's done, there's lots more).

But now it's time to think about the weekend (haircut, Chelsea v. Manchester City + lots and lots of Greta and Ben time!).

Have a good one.

Stuart Rubenstein

Finished!!

2007-10-25T17:53:00.000Z

It always takes me longer than I expect... and every year I say I'll start earlier. But I never learn...

I've just completed all the course descriptions, timetables, fees, accommodation details and general information for 2008. Pages and pages of information that I try to make as clear as possible. I produce one document to send to students and one for agents.

I can't believe that we offer over 20 different choices for English courses.

I've had a look at the design for the new brochure and I must say that it looks wonderful. I can't wait to get them printed.

Stuart Rubenstein

No posts... lots happening...

2007-10-22T09:56:00.000Z

It's been a very busy week or so and that's my only excuse for no new posts.

I've been desperately trying to finish the text for our new Language in London brochure. The aim has been to write something that everyone can understand and is an introduction to the school without saying everything. I'm meeting the designers this week and then it will be printing time. I had hoped to have the brochure completed a couple of months ago but timing is never my strong point.

We're also planning some great new things for 2008, which need publicity and promotion. This includes a summer course called "British Books and Films" (guess what that's about!) and extend our Cultural Experience course so that it is available all year.

I'm also working on a programme called "Best of Both Worlds" with a school in Devon. This would give our students the chance to have a course in the heart of the English countryside and the heart of London. Two hearts are better than one!

Oh.... and congratulations to South Africa on winning the Rugby World Cup. I think England did very well to get to the final but the better team won.

Regards,
Stuart

Thanks Rosa!

2007-10-11T14:43:00.000Z

Just got this photo from Rosa from 1998. The old "Camden College" canopy was filthy. I remember we changed that the next year for a blue one. Everyone looks very cold here... not sure if it was summer or winter!

Don't forget... if you want your face to be on the History of Camden wall then send me your photo (but not by email as I need proper photographs).

Stuart

FINAL CALL FOR PHOTOS

2007-10-03T14:39:00.001Z

If you attended Camden College of English at any time from 1989 until the present then this message is for you.

As you know, we have moved to a new building in central London but we don't want to forget our past. We receive emails and have visits from old students all the time and want them / you to feel at home when you come to 42 Bloomsbury Street.

Next month we are going to prepare our History Wall with photos of all those involved in the school at any time. If you want to be part of this then send us your pictures. The best thing is to post them to me at school (as they will be displayed, I won't be able to return them).

Don't forget you can also join the Camden College of English community on Facebook.

Stuart

Grumpy Old Man

2007-10-03T11:44:00.000Z

I think I'm becoming a grumpy old man... and I also think that England is changing. For years, the two most civilised aspects of our society have been queueing at bus stops and standing on the right on escalators. These are customs that tourists and visitors have to learn quickly. They also clearly show that we are different from those savages (the rest of the world!) who push and fight when their bus arrives and do not respect the "first come, first served" way of doing things.
We love queueing in England. It shows order, reason and respect. How can anything else work properly if such a simple process fails?
BUT... things are changing!
I have noticed, when waiting for the bus in the morning, that half of us stand in line and the rest bunch around the front of the queue no matter what time they arrive. And it's not just young people... no! It's EVERYONE! Of course, the rest of us, the good-queuers, don't complain or say a word.
I think I'm getting old!

(My longest and favourite queueing experience was 2 days in 1982 for Bruce Springsteen tickets.)

Stuart

Did you miss me?

2007-09-26T15:38:00.000Z

One wonderful week by the sea in Greece... swimming, eating, enjoying the sun... playing with Ben all day.... perfect!
Here we are chilling out by the pool...

But home is home and it's great to be back in London...

Stuart

While the cat's away, the mice will play....

2007-09-14T15:04:00.000Z

Yes, we're off on holiday ... sun, sea, bucket and spade...

It was a last minute decision between Cornwall and Greece and Greece won! So, there'll be no blogs and I'll try my hardest not to think or worry about the school.

Have fun wherever you are and thanks for the suggestions of places to go.

And of course, promise me you'll all be good for the next seven days!!!!

love
Stuart, Greta and Benjamin

What a week!

2007-09-07T14:03:00.000Z

Sorry I haven't managed to post this week but it's been a very busy time. Monday, Tuesday and Wednesday were spent locked in a hotel in London... without seeing daylight.

The reason for this?

Every year there is a fair, Studyworld, where agents from around the world meet representatives from schools and educational institutions. The system is that the schools sit at tables and we have a schedule of 20-minute appointments with the agents from 0800 in the morning until 1800.

I met agents from Brazil, Hong Kong, Japan, Italy, Spain, Latvia, Brazil, Oman, Russia, France, Georgia, Portugal, Turkey, Saudi Arabia, Mexico, Thailand, Ukraine, Sweden, Switzerland, Poland and even one from London!

Approximately 50% of our students are sent by agents and the other 50% come through an independent internet research or by word-of-mouth recommendation. Here are some of the people I met:
Jime and Christine from Hong Kong Study Tours Centre, Hong Kong.

Olga from Persona Grata in Russia.

Maria from High Connections in Brazil.

Audrey from Indirizzo Inghilterra in Italy.

Advice please...

2007-08-30T19:56:00.000Z

Even a language school Principal needs a holiday... yes, it's true. Greta, Benjamin and I have decided to have a week's break in September. The question is: where?
We want a bit sunshine, beach, good food and a shortish flight from London.

What do you suggest?

Stuart

Open minds and full tummies.

2007-08-28T10:36:00.000Z

In case you don't know, this is a steak and kidney pudding. And what is a steak and kidney pudding? Well, it's ENGLISH FOOD!!!

Yes, I know what you all think about English food. I've heard every comment a million times!!!

Last Wednesday about 30 of us went out for dinner to Porters in Covent Garden, which is a restaurant specialising in traditional English cooking. We tucked into a three course meal and enjoyed trying what everybody else ordered.

What did everybody think? Well, they arrived with open minds and left with full tummies and spent a lot of time chatting and laughing... and some even liked the food!!

Bon appetit!
Stuart

Duarte, Roman and Rui...

2007-08-17T16:47:00.001Z

On the left is Duarte and on the right is Rui... two wonderful students from Portugal. In the middle is billionaire Roman Abramovich, owner of Chelsea Football Club. The lads met Roman at a training session at Stamford Bridge and persuaded him to pose for a photo. Even with all the money in the world, Roman's English is not very good but I don't think they convinced him to take some lessons. Rui has a great blog with more photos of his time in London.

Have a good weekend and "Come on Chelsea!"
Stuart

Ramon the Winner

2007-08-15T08:50:00.001Z

Ramon is in the front row wearing a yellow t-shirt. But why is he getting a special mention?
Well, he first came to the school in 1992 (yes, 1992!) and has been a regular summer visitor ever since. More than anything, Ramon likes coming to London and seeing his old friends and keeping his English at a good level. This year he's become a minor celebrity in the city because he's had one of his photos published in "The London Paper", an evening newspaper read by millions of commuters on the way home from work. His winning photo was of an Indian dance festival in Trafalgar Square.
See you next year Ramon!

Stuart

we've gone wi-fi...

2007-08-13T16:19:00.000Z

We've now got our wi-fi installed... so if you are coming to the school and don't want to use one of the 12 computers in our internet cafe... you can use your own.

This is not the most interesting post but it might be useful!

Stuart

Mission Impossible

2007-08-09T09:06:00.000Z

We call it Mission Impossible... a weekend competition between groups of students who have to be photographed in different places, doing / eating / drinking / trying different things...

I started this activity about 5 years and we run it at the school every six months. Each time we do it, I update the tasks and include special events happening in London.

Those who took part had so much fun and visited a lot of amazing places.

Here are some photos from our wonderful students who took part last weekend.

Review of the week

2007-08-03T10:06:00.001Z

It's been a good week at school. The "Bloomsbury Walk", which I do on a Monday for new students, is getting better. The idea of the walk is to give everyone a chance to get to know each other on their first day and to show that Bloomsbury Street is the cleverest road in the world... well, that's my theory! Somehow I manage to include Charles Darwin, Karl Marx, Virginnia Woolf, Graham Greene, George Orwell, John Maynard Keynes, Dante Gabriel Rossetti, chocolate, sex and a few other stories...

On Wednesday evening, all the staff went out for a meal together - if you want to see us all eating... please go to this link at YouTube.

Yesterday evening Rob took about 25 students to Primrose Hill for a picnic and game of cricket and by all accounts everyone had a great time.

On a more personal note, I'm miserable at the moment. Greta has gone to Argentina to see her parents and of course, she's taken Benjamin with her. I miss them both so much. Ben is at an age (18 months) where he is changing all the time and learning new words every day. It's horrible not having them at home. The weekend will be the worst ... especially as the weather is going to be great. I'll fill my time with writing the new school brochure and website, seeing the Simpsons movie and watching Chelsea v. Manchester United.

Have a good weekend everyone!
Stuart

The Green Machine

2007-07-30T13:37:00.001Z

We try to be as environmentally friendly as possible at the school - this includes recycling paper, using proper cups for coffee (and not throwing away polystyrene ones) and encouraging all students and staff to use public transport or cycle to school. Here's Si Hyung from Korea, who leaves his bike on the terrace when he's in class.

Teachers Alastair and Ashleigh as well as Alejandra all reguarly cycle to work.

Stuart

Bye..... and thanks

2007-07-27T14:43:00.000Z

It's always sad on a Friday when students leave. Some have been with us for a long time, others for only a couple of weeks but we never like saying goodbye.
Here's a great photo of those leaving today. Alejandra (who arranged all their accommodation and did so much to help them), is in the middle at the front.

Wherever you are ... have a good weekend.
Stuart

Facebook

2007-07-26T16:06:00.001Z

Camden College of English now has a group on Facebook... so, join!

Stuart