West Thames College recently achieved an Outstanding rating from Ofsted, a recognition of our exceptional staff and our dedication to student success. Among the newer members of the team is Qudusia, who has been teaching Threshold ESOL for just one month, yet has already made a meaningful impact on her students and the department.
Qudusia’s journey into teaching ESOL began with a passion for helping others. She discovered her calling while volunteering at a community centre, assisting newcomers to improve their English.
“Many of them faced challenges in their daily lives simply because they couldn’t speak English fluently,” she recalled.
Witnessing the transformative power of language inspired her to earn formal teaching qualifications, including a CELTA certification and further studies in linguistics and second language acquisition.
For Qudusia, ESOL is about more than teaching grammar—it’s about empowering students to navigate their lives confidently.
“My teaching philosophy is rooted in empathy and creating a supportive learning environment,” she explained.
She tailors her lessons to real-life needs, from job applications to communicating in daily interactions, ensuring her students see the immediate value of their learning.
The practical and transformative nature of ESOL keeps Qudusia inspired. “Learning English gives my students confidence to integrate into their communities and achieve personal and professional goals,” she said.
Her enthusiasm is contagious; she brings energy to her lessons with real-life scenarios, interactive activities, and a celebration of her students’ diverse cultures.
One student’s journey exemplifies the impact of her teaching. Shixuan, currently progressing on the ESOL Entry 2 program, has gained the skills to apply for a construction course and has started a part-time job, where his growing confidence in English is evident.
“His success shows how the Threshold ESOL course serves as a stepping stone for young learners,” Qudusia shared proudly.
Reflecting on the Ofsted inspection, Qudusia highlighted her department’s inclusive, student-centered approach.
“We create a supportive environment tailored to diverse needs, with lessons focused on real-world applications. The college creates opportunities for everyone to thrive. It’s a privilege to be part of a place where teaching and learning flourish,” she said.
