Qualification Structure

The NOCN Entry Level Certificate in ESOL International (Entry 1) (A1) is a NOCN qualification designed to recognise basic English language skills at A1 level. The qualification has a Total Qualification Time (TQT) of 300 hours and 30 credits.

Assessment for the NOCN Entry Level Certificate in ESOL International (Entry 1) (A1) is assignment-based. Learner work is assessed in accordance with NOCN assessment and quality assurance requirements to ensure that learners demonstrate the required knowledge, understanding and practical application of basic English language skills.

To achieve the qualification, learners must successfully complete all four mandatory units.

Core Study Units

Unit 1: IESOL Entry 1 Reading

On successful completion of this unit, the learner will be able to:

• Understand simple written words, phrases and sentences.
• Identify key information in short, familiar texts.
• Understand basic signs, notices, labels and messages.
• Use reading strategies to locate specific information in simple texts.
• Demonstrate understanding of familiar everyday written communication.

Unit 2: IESOL Entry 1 Speaking

On successful completion of this unit, the learner will be able to:

• Use simple words and phrases in familiar spoken situations.
• Introduce themselves and provide basic personal information.
• Ask and answer simple questions about familiar topics.
• Participate in short and straightforward conversations.
• Communicate basic needs, preferences and information clearly.

Unit 3: IESOL Entry 1 Listening

On successful completion of this unit, the learner will be able to:

• Understand simple spoken English in familiar situations.
• Identify key information in short spoken messages and conversations.
• Recognise familiar words, phrases and expressions when spoken clearly.
• Follow simple instructions and requests.
• Demonstrate understanding of basic everyday spoken communication.

Unit 4: IESOL Entry 1 Writing

On successful completion of this unit, the learner will be able to:

• Write simple words, phrases and sentences about familiar topics.
• Provide basic personal information in written English.
• Complete simple forms, notes and short messages.
• Use basic vocabulary and sentence structures appropriately.
• Communicate simple information in clear written English.

Who Is This Qualification For?

The NOCN Entry Level Certificate in ESOL International (Entry 1) (A1) is designed for non-native English speakers who need to develop and demonstrate basic English language skills for everyday, educational and occupational communication. NOCN identifies its ESOL International qualifications as suitable for learners worldwide, including learners in the UK, who require externally recognised certification of their English language level.

This qualification is suitable for

• Beginner English learners: Learners who are developing foundational English skills at A1 level and need a structured qualification aligned with the Common European Framework of Reference for Languages (CEFR).
• International learners: Non-native English speakers in the UK or other countries who want formal recognition of their basic English language ability.
• Learners needing everyday English: Individuals who want to communicate using familiar expressions and simple language in common personal and public situations.
• Workplace learners: Individuals developing basic English communication skills for routine occupational situations and interactions.
• Students and adult learners: Learners attending English language programmes who want to establish a recognised foundation before progressing to higher English language levels.
• Learners requiring certification: Individuals who need an externally recognised indication of their English proficiency at A1 level.
• Learners preparing for progression: Those intending to develop their English further through higher ESOL levels or vocational and academic learning in an English-speaking environment.

English level: The qualification corresponds to A1 on the CEFR and Entry Level 1 within the relevant UK national level mapping. At this level, learners develop the ability to understand and use familiar everyday expressions, introduce themselves, provide basic personal information and participate in simple communication when the other speaker communicates clearly and supportively.

Career Opportunities

The NOCN Entry Level Certificate in ESOL International (Entry 1) (A1) provides learners with a structured foundation in essential English language skills. The qualification develops practical ability in listening, reading, speaking and writing, helping learners communicate using simple language in familiar everyday, educational and occupational situations. It is suitable for learners in the UK and internationally who are developing basic English proficiency, seeking recognised certification of their A1-level language ability, or preparing to progress to higher English language levels and other learning opportunities.

Future Progression

The NOCN Entry Level Certificate in ESOL International (Entry 1) (A1) provides learners with a foundation for developing practical English language skills for everyday, educational and workplace communication. The qualification develops listening, reading, speaking and writing abilities, supporting learners who need to establish basic English proficiency for communication in the UK and internationally.

Academically, learners may progress to higher-level ESOL or English language qualifications, subject to the entry requirements of the receiving institution or awarding organisation. The qualification can also support continued learning in vocational, workplace and community-based education where basic English communication is required.

Professionally, this qualification can support access to entry-level roles where basic English communication is useful, such as Customer Service Assistant, Retail Assistant, Reception Assistant, Hospitality Assistant, Office Assistant and Warehouse Assistant, depending on the learner’s wider skills, experience and employer requirements. The English language skills developed through the qualification provide a foundation for understanding simple information, following instructions, communicating basic needs, completing straightforward written tasks and participating in familiar workplace interactions.