The Gold Course, which lasts for one, two or three weeks, is open to anyone over the age of 50 who wants to spend time in the company of like-minded adults.  The Course offers a blend of English lessons, social activities, visits and excursions.

As one of Europe's most historic cities, York, with its rich cultural life, is an ideal location for courses for older students. Throughout the year there is a varied programme of concerts, from the famous Early Music Festival to live jazz.

The traffic-free centre has a huge choice of bars and restaurants as well as one of the best selections of shops in the north of England. For the more active, York has a number of golf courses - including the international course at Fulford.

There are seven Gold courses during the year, for three of which the minimum age is 50; for the other four, the minimum age is 40.  ‘Gold’ only classes are guaranteed only at the following levels: pre-intermediate, intermediate and advanced, and only for the courses with a minimum age of 50. 

Host families are selected with care to ensure homes with good conversation.  For students preferring hotel accommodation, there are several of these quote close to the school.  Information on request.

The afternoon programme, which ensures that paricipants see as much as possible of York andsome of the surrounding area, is designed with older students in mind. The visits are guided by a senior member of the College staff. The course finishes with a farewell dinner at York’s best restaurant, a great way to end a memorable stay.  The programme also includes some informal social events.

Package price - registration fee + course + host family accommodation

Prices which include hotel accommodation can be provided on request.

Dates available, 2012:

22nd October to 4th November  (40+)

4th to 25th November  (50+ with Gold only classes)

For over 45 years students have come to this school to learn English and to live in one of Britain's most interesting cities. It is located in Holgate, close to the city centre but away from the crowds, and offers space to relax, peace to study and the assurance of quality which comes with experience.

The school arranges high quality English courses for all ages and for all levels.  There are General English courses, adult and junior vacation courses, courses for the over 50's and  courses for groups, often with special additional programmes.  In addition to classroom-based lessons, the school arranges a variety of social events, excursions, activities and accompanied visits to places of interest in and around York, all of which helps students to make the most of their time in England.

The school itself is in a carefully converted Victorian building with extensive private lanscaped grounds, developed over the years to suit the changing needs of its students, yet it is only a short walk from the heart of York.  In its beautiful garden students can study in peace, play tennis, basketball and table-tennis or just relax. There is also a large terrace for barbecues and other social activities.

The classrooms are superbly equipped, and there is also a lecture theatre, a library, a computer room, common rooms, conservatories, a self-access centre, a café, and free Wi-Fi access.  All this in one building, spacious, safe and secure.

Most students choose to stay in one of the school's 140 carefully selected host families, many of which are within walking distance of the school. Living in an English household is a wonderful way to practise your English. Some families have been looking after students for the school for over 20 years! As a guest in homestay accommodation you will have a single room, you will eat with the family and be able to join in with family life. If you are sharing the family with another student they will not speak your language.  There are many different types of host; families with children, couples and single people.  Whe school is always willing to try and help with requests.

Host Families provide:

• A safe environment (compliance with safety regulations)
• Single Room for students over 18 (unless otherwise requested)
• Adequate heat and light
• Space to hang/store clothes
• A desk to work at in your bedroom
• Reasonable access to toilet/washing facilities (bath or shower daily)
• Reasonable mealtimes
• Breakfast and a substantial, cooked evening meal, eaten with your host(s)
• Lunch at the weekend
• A packed lunch is provided in the College for students on full board
• A reasonable amount of washing (but not ironing)
• The opportunity to chat and practise your English
• All hosts undertake to comply with the school's Welfare Regulations

Price: 

Adult students (18+):  £112.35 per week

Junior students (under 18):  £170 per week

Executive homestay is available for students over the age of 25. This includes private facilities (WC plus bath or shower.)  Supplement to Homestay price:  £87.50 per week.

Hotel, bed and breakfast and self-catering accommodation can also be arranged for adult students.