Arrival and Orientation
What to expect and how we’ll support you
What to Expect on your First Day
Starting a new course in a new country is exciting, and our Arrival & Orientation process is designed to help you settle in quickly. This schedule ensures that you have everything you need to begin your studies at ELC with confidence. From placement testing to getting to know the campus, each step is carefully planned to make your first day smooth and stress-free.
Your first morning at ELC is designed to help you settle in, meet your teachers, and get to know your classmates. You'll also explore the campus and gain a clear understanding of how everything works. By the end of the orientation, you'll know your class level, have your course materials, and be ready to start learning.
Make sure you arrive on time, complete your Online Placement Test in advance, and bring any required documents. Our team is here to guide you through the process and answer any questions you may have. Below is your Arrival & Orientation Schedule so you know what to expect.
Before arrival
Do the Online Placement Test
You’ll receive an email with a link to the online placement test two weeks before your course starts. Complete it in advance to start on day one—late completion means starting a day later.
8:30
Arrive at the School
Arrive at ELC in good time to check in, meet other students, and get ready for the day. Punctuality ensures a smooth start, allowing you to focus on your placement and orientation activities.
9:00
Speaking Test
Teachers conduct brief one-on-one speaking assessments to complement the online placement test. This helps determine your level and place you in the right class, ensuring the best learning experience.
10:00
Welcome Presentation
An introduction to ELC, your course, and student life. This session covers key policies, study expectations, and resources, so listen carefully to get the most from your time with us.
10:30
Campus Tour
Take a guided walk around the Hiddingh campus and our Adderley Street location. You’ll see classrooms, student spaces, and key facilities, helping you settle in and feel at home in Cape Town.
11:30
Class Allocation
Return to receive your class level, meet your teacher, and collect your coursebook. Your placement ensures you are in the right group to support your progress and language development.
12:00
Begin Class
Start your first lesson at 12:00, joining your classmates in the final morning session. Students on intensive courses will also have an elective class in the afternoon as part of their program.
First Day Schedule
Before arrival
Do the Online Placement Test
You’ll receive an email with a link to the online placement test two weeks before your course starts. Complete it in advance to start on day one—late completion means starting a day later.
8:30
Arrive at the School
Arrive at ELC in good time to check in, meet other students, and get ready for the day. Punctuality ensures a smooth start, allowing you to focus on your placement and orientation activities.
9:00
Speaking Test
Teachers conduct brief one-on-one speaking assessments to complement the online placement test. This helps determine your level and place you in the right class, ensuring the best learning experience.
10:00
Welcome Presentation
An introduction to ELC, your course, and student life. This session covers key policies, study expectations, and resources, so listen carefully to get the most from your time with us.
10:30
Campus Tour
Take a guided walk around the Hiddingh campus and our Adderley Street location. You’ll see classrooms, student spaces, and key facilities, helping you settle in and feel at home in Cape Town.
11:30
Class Allocation
Return to receive your class level, meet your teacher, and collect your coursebook. Your placement ensures you are in the right group to support your progress and language development.
12:00
Begin Class
Start your first lesson at 12:00, joining your classmates in the final morning session. Students on intensive courses will also have an elective class in the afternoon as part of their program.
Contact Us
Want to know what to expect when you land? We’ll walk you through it.
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