FODI provides free, unaccredited English lessons for asylum seekers, refugees, and other migrants aged 18 and over. The lessons are for people who are not eligible or cannot attend college classes.
Classes start from Monday 15/09/25.
Next registration dates are at FODI, The Co-op Centre, Whitehouse Road, Hendon, SR2 8AH.
- Monday 08/09/25 10:00 – 12:00 and 13:00 – 15:00
- Wednesday 10/09/25 10:00 – 12:00
You can also meet our English teacher, Joanne, at the Drop-In at St. Mary’s Church, SR1 1TQ, from 1 pm every Wednesday in September. She will assess your level and give you more information about the classes.
Lessons are for two hours, twice weekly:
| Beginner | Monday & Thursday | 10am – 12 midday |
| Intermediate | Monday & Thursday | 1pm – 3pm |
| Advanced | Wednesday & Friday | 10am – 12 midday |
Our programme involves regular trips to practice English in real-life situations and help learners get to know their neighbourhood. Digital skills are included in the programme, and learners will be given the support and encouragement to learn independently. Learning a language takes a lot of time and effort, and we hope to give everyone the skills, knowledge, and energy to become independent learners. For access to online learning material, click here: ESOL Online Practice.
FODI is a safe, friendly and welcoming environment to make friends, learn English and become active members of the community.
Travel Information
We have limited funds to refund travel costs and can only reimburse those most in need. We cannot reimburse your bus fare if you live within walking distance of the class at SR2 8AB (approximately 2 miles). Please talk to us if you have a special situation.
Volunteering with FODI Language Lessons: As we develop the project, we may haveopportunities for volunteer teachers and teaching assistants to join our team. If you think you have the skills to support FODI ESOL, please contact our ESOL Co-ordinator.
Send us a message!
If you are a member of the community with an idea or wish to be directly involved in the work we do with Asylum Seekers and Refugees in Sunderland, we’d love to hear from you. You can contact our ESOL Project Coordinator, Joanne Norton.
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