Business Details
English Language Courses in Exeter for International Students
STAR Exeter is a dedicated English language school located in the historic city of Exeter, offering high-quality education to international students. Our experienced team of native English-speaking teachers, all holding internationally recognised qualifications such as Cambridge CELTA or Delta, deliver tailored courses designed to meet diverse learning needs. We prioritise small class sizes (maximum 12 students) to ensure individual attention, using communicative teaching methods that foster confidence and practical language skills. Our curriculum includes General English, IELTS preparation, and Foundation Programmes, complemented by afternoon academic skills sessions and a vibrant social programme.We provide homestay and residence accommodation, carefully vetted for quality, alongside comprehensive student support services. Our commitment to excellence is evidenced by our British Council accreditation, reflecting our adherence to rigorous standards in teaching, welfare, and care for under-18 students. We pride ourselves on creating a welcoming, inclusive environment where students from over 50 countries can thrive academically and culturally.
Services
General English
IELTS Preparation
Foundation Programme
Homestay Accommodation
Social Programme
Highlights and features
- Experienced teachers with Cambridge CELTA or Delta qualifications
- Small classes (max 12 students) for personalised attention
- British Council accredited for teaching excellence and student welfare
- Tailored IELTS and university foundation programmes
- Comprehensive homestay accommodation with cultural immersion
Associations and certifications
- British Council
What people say
Excellent teachers
Friendly atmosphere
Effective learning
Great homestay
Amazing experiences
Services
General English
Our General English courses develop speaking, listening, reading, and writing skills through communicative methods. Morning classes use structured coursebooks while afternoons focus on practical application through presentations and real-world materials. Students progress from CEFR B1 to B2 level in approximately 12 weeks with regular progress tests and individual tutorials.
IELTS Preparation
Specialised IELTS classes prepare students for all four exam components using Mindset for IELTS materials and computer-based practice tests. Delivered four afternoons weekly alongside morning General English, the course includes full mock exams every four weeks and targeted feedback to achieve required scores for university admission or professional purposes.
Foundation Programme
Designed for students without A-level qualifications, our International Foundation Programme offers subject-specific pathways in business, computing, and engineering. The curriculum combines academic English with discipline-specific content to prepare students for UK university entry, with guaranteed progression options to partner institutions.
Homestay Accommodation
Quality-checked homestay placements provide cultural immersion and language practice. Host families offer single rooms with meals, located within 30 minutes of school. Accommodation includes local knowledge support and regular welfare checks, with options for students aged 16+ and specific arrangements for under-18s.
Social Programme
Weekly excursions to destinations like London, Bath, and Stonehenge complement local activities including sports, international food evenings, and cinema trips. Teacher-led events provide informal English practice while exploring Devon's countryside and coastal attractions, fostering global friendships through shared experiences.
People
Caz Potten
Director
With over 20 years in English language education, Caz leads STAR Exeter's strategic vision while maintaining close student engagement through regular social programme participation and welfare oversight.
Mark Norman
Teacher
CELTA-qualified instructor specialising in communicative methodology, Mark brings 15 years' experience teaching international students while leading afternoon academic skills sessions and IELTS preparation.
Sandy Salisbury
Teacher / Maths Tutor
Combining English teaching with mathematics expertise, Sandy delivers cross-disciplinary support for foundation programme students, integrating language development with quantitative skills for STEM pathways.
David Lewis
Academic Manager
Overseeing curriculum development, David ensures course alignment with university partners' requirements while maintaining quality standards across all teaching staff and academic resources.
Joel Potten
Student Experience Manager
Organising over 50 annual social events, Joel coordinates excursions and cultural activities while serving as primary contact for student welfare and extracurricular engagement.
Questions
What English courses do you offer?
We provide General English, IELTS preparation, One-to-One tuition, and subject-specific Foundation Programmes for university entry in business, computing, and engineering fields.
Are your courses suitable for complete beginners?
Our General English courses start at Elementary (A2) level, with placement tests ensuring appropriate class allocation for all proficiency levels from beginner to advanced.
How are accommodation options arranged?
We offer quality-checked homestay and residence options with single rooms, meals, and cultural immersion, including specific arrangements for under-18 students.
Do you provide visa support?
We offer comprehensive visa guidance including CAS issuance for Tier 4 visas, with dedicated support throughout the application process for eligible long-term students.
What is your class size?
Maximum 12 students per class ensures personalised attention, with average progression from IELTS 4.0 to 5.0 achievable within 12 weeks through focused instruction.
How do you support student welfare?
British Council-accredited welfare systems include 24/7 emergency contact, regular student questionnaires, and dedicated staff for under-18 safeguarding and pastoral care.
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