Following a review of our qualifications and feedback from our centres, we are increasing the time allowed for ESB Entry Level Award ESOL Skills for Life (Writing) Entry 3) from 60 minutes to 70 minutes. This is to ensure that learners can plan, write and review their responses in the time provided, and takes effect immediately, for all Entry 3 Writing assessments from October 2024.

We have therefore issued a new version of the Entry 3 Writing specifications to update the time permitted to 70 minutes. We have also issued new versions of the Reading and Writing specifications at all levels, with some additional information on the punctuation that is expected at each level. The Specifications and sample papers are on our website here https://esbuk.org/web/our-teacher-resources/esol-skills-for-life-resources/ .

Change to the safeguarding procedure for learners under 18 and vulnerable adults

From October 2024, the member of staff who is in the assessment room with learners under 18 and vulnerable adults will stay for the whole assessment, including the listening section. Centre staff in the assessment room may not take notes or participate in the assessment, but must be present at all times when assessors are with young people and/or vulnerable adults.