The English Tutors at REACHE prepare members to succeed in the OET Medicine test through a combination of language classes, intercultural communication sessions and volunteer support. REACHE was an early adopter of the OET and has been teaching toward this qualification since it was first recognised by the General Medical Council in 2018.
Our dynamic English classes are delivered by fully qualified and experienced teachers in a hospital setting. We aim to help members to improve their general English skills as well as the skills evaluated in the OET: Reading, Writing, Speaking and Listening. We offer a hybrid programme which affords the advantages of both distance learning and face-to-face classes. We incorporate an understanding of professionalism, working in the NHS and cultural understanding into our classes. In addition, we offer a programme of intercultural communication training where we tackle topics in the context of modern British society, from making small talk in the workplace to giving and receiving feedback.
As part of the English programme, our members undertake regular assessments, including weekly writing assignments and termly mock OET tests. We offer detailed feedback to members to inform their targets and ensure good progress; we encourage members to reflect on their performance and take ownership of their learning.
Members also practise presentation skills as part of the English course. This is excellent speaking practice and prepares our members to apply their skills in a professional environment.
In addition to our main classes, we offer intensive exam-focused courses. These courses aim to prepare members to sit the OET. We also arrange regular volunteer sessions for our members, where they have the opportunity to practice their speaking skills for both exams and general conversation.
Applicants to REACHE's OET programme are tested at entry so they can be allocated to the appropriate English group. This test may be in the form of an OET Pulse test or an OET mock test. Potential members will be advised about the form that their test will take at the relevant point in their application.
We co-operate with local colleges to help members access English as a Second Language courses at the right level for them. These courses form an important part of our members' English learning alongside the specialised classes available at REACHE.
We provide support before taking the OET (including assistance with gaining funding) as well as support after the exam, when the next stage of the requalification journey begins: the PLAB exam. At REACHE, English and Clinical tutors work together as part of a multidisciplinary team to ensure that members are fully prepared for working life in the NHS.