English Language Tests for Private Hire and TfL Drivers

Who Needs What?

All new and existing private hire drivers must meet the equivalent of a B1 (intermediate) language requirement for all four English language skills (listening, reading, writing and speaking). This applies to all new and existing drivers who are renewing their licence, even if they have been born in the UK or have UK citizenship.

At Rose of York you can prepare the Secure English Language Test (SELT) of your choice (Trinity ISE I or IELTS) to meet the requirements set by TfL.

Preparing and taking the SELT with Rose of York will allow you to pass the exam and provide the certification you need and the proof of your ability to communicate in English.

List of English language certifications accepted by TfL as proof of English language proficiency:

• Integrated Skills in English (ISE I) assessed by Trinity College London
• International English Language Testing System (IELTS) assessed by Cambridge English Language Assessment
• Cambridge First (FCE) assessed by Cambridge English Language Assessment
• ESOL Skills for Life (Entry Level 3, Level 1, Level 2)
• Functional Skills qualifications in English (Entry Level 3, Level 1, Level 2)

The Course aims to

• Develop the techniques and strategies required to complete the exam
• Strengthen dialogue techniques by focussing on the expressions needed to communicate effectively, respond appropriately to interaction, initiate and maintain interaction in the speaking test
• Perform in role plays similar to those presented in the SELT
• Use a range of vocabulary and language functions accurately
• Enable students to read and understand articles and reports concerned with contemporary problems
• Present ideas clearly and write appropriately, using beginnings and endings and using paragraphs
• Prepare candidates for the structure and demands of the SELT through regular practice tests
• Evaluate progress and identify specific areas of improvement to achieve the best score possible

Courses Available

The following courses include General English classes to acquire topic knowledge and Trinity ISE I or IELTS preparation to do specific exam training for your SELT exam.

Sample 2-week syllabus

The following sample syllabus is designed for those students with a good command of the English language, who want to brush up on their English language skills and learn the relevant exam skills in a short time before taking their SELT.

The course can be extended to a greater number of weeks to meet the student’s needs and to acquire all the necessary language skills to reach the B1 (intermediate) level required by TfL for private hire drivers.