Free initial assessments for English for Speakers of Other Languages courses take place at Hatfield Library on Wednesday 22 July. Step2Skills, the adult learning service run by Hertfordshire County Council, will check language ability across two sessions — 10.15am to 11.30am and 11.30am to 12.45pm — so residents can join accredited classes in September.
Only four places remained available when the council published the event, with bookings closing at midnight on Monday 20 July. Attendees must bring photo ID, a National Insurance number, emergency contact details, and evidence of their UK residency status. The assessments themselves cost nothing, and the follow-up courses are fully funded by the Education and Skills Funding Agency for eligible learners. Adults aged 19 or over qualify if they live in Hertfordshire, hold lawful immigration status, and are either unemployed and claiming benefits or working with an annual income below £25,750.
A similar session ran at the library in September 2025 and closed fully booked, reflecting steady local demand. Step2Skills uses the results to place each person on a course level that matches their skills, leading to a formal qualification. The service operates across several county venues, including Hertford, Waltham Cross, Borehamwood, and Stevenage, and works with delivery partners such as ATN and Oaklands College to run the classes.
Residents unsure about eligibility can reach Step2Skills on 01992 556194 or by email at [email protected] before the booking window closes.
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