Qualification Structure

The NOCN Level 1 Certificate in ESOL International (B2) is a NOCN qualification aligned with B2 of the Common European Framework of Reference for Languages (CEFR) and mapped to Level 1 of the Regulated Qualifications Framework (RQF). The qualification number is 601/1931/7.

Assessment for the NOCN Level 1 Certificate in ESOL International (B2) is examination-based. The qualification assesses four mandatory language skills: Listening, Reading, Writing and Speaking. The examinations are externally set and marked, while the Speaking examination is conducted within the approved centre by an interlocutor appointed and trained by NOCN.

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

Core Study Units

Unit 1: Listening

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

• Understand the main ideas and relevant details in spoken English.
• Respond appropriately to statements, questions and spoken information.
• Extract key information from conversations, broadcasts and other spoken texts.
• Identify specific information and meaning in real-life spoken contexts.
• Follow spoken English relating to public, personal, educational and occupational situations.

Unit 2: Reading

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

• Understand the main ideas and purpose of a range of written texts.
• Locate and extract specific information through detailed reading.
• Summarise relevant information from written sources.
• Sequence information and identify relationships between ideas.
• Distinguish between factual information and opinion.
• Apply appropriate knowledge of vocabulary, spelling, punctuation and grammar when interpreting texts.

Unit 3: Writing

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

• Produce clear and coherent written texts for specified audiences.
• Write formal texts such as letters, articles, reports or arguments.
• Produce informal, narrative or descriptive texts for appropriate audiences.
• Express opinions, ideas and viewpoints clearly in writing.
• Develop arguments and provide appropriate explanations or justification.
• Use suitable vocabulary, grammar, organisation and written conventions.

Unit 4: Speaking

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

• Communicate with a degree of fluency and spontaneity in spoken English.
• Participate effectively in conversations and discussions.
• Express and explain opinions and viewpoints on a range of topics.
• Respond appropriately to questions and spoken interaction.
• Communicate effectively in public, personal, educational and occupational contexts.
• Use appropriate vocabulary, grammar and pronunciation to convey meaning clearly.

Who Is This Qualification For?

The NOCN Level 1 Certificate in ESOL International (B2) is designed for non-native English speakers who need to demonstrate an independent level of English proficiency for everyday, educational or occupational communication. NOCN identifies its ESOL International qualifications as suitable for learners in the UK and internationally.

This qualification is particularly suitable for:

• International English language learners: Learners who want a recognised qualification demonstrating their English language ability at B2 level.
• Learners seeking B2 English certification: Suitable for individuals who need formal evidence of English proficiency across listening, reading, writing and speaking.
• People using English at work: Appropriate for learners who need to communicate in English in workplace and occupational contexts.
• Learners preparing for further English-language learning: Suitable for individuals progressing through the NOCN ESOL International levels or developing their English for academic or vocational learning.
• Professionals and employees: Useful for learners who need to communicate with greater fluency and confidence in English-speaking working environments.
• International learners: Designed for non-native English speakers worldwide, including learners studying or working in the UK.
• Learners attending English language courses: Suitable for individuals undertaking either shorter English language programmes or longer-term learning towards greater English proficiency.

At B2, the qualification corresponds to the Independent User level of the Common European Framework of Reference for Languages (CEFR). It is intended for learners who can understand the main ideas of complex texts, interact with reasonable fluency, produce clear and detailed written communication, and explain viewpoints on a range of topics.

Career Opportunities

The NOCN Level 1 Certificate in ESOL International (B2) provides learners with a structured foundation in English language communication at B2 level of the Common European Framework of Reference for Languages (CEFR). The qualification develops practical skills in listening, reading, writing and speaking, enabling learners to communicate effectively across personal, educational, public and occupational contexts.

Future Progression

The NOCN Level 1 Certificate in ESOL International (B2) provides learners with a recognised foundation in English language proficiency for educational, occupational, personal and international communication contexts. The qualification develops practical competence in listening, reading, writing and speaking at B2 level of the Common European Framework of Reference for Languages (CEFR).

Academically, learners may progress to further English language qualifications, higher CEFR levels or education and training programmes where an appropriate level of English proficiency is required, subject to the entry requirements of the receiving institution.

Professionally, the qualification can support progression towards communication-focused roles such as Customer Service Assistant, Administrative Assistant, Receptionist, Office Assistant, Retail Assistant, Hospitality Assistant, Sales Assistant, Call Centre Agent and Front Desk Assistant, depending on the learner’s experience and employer requirements. The English language skills developed through the qualification can help learners communicate information, understand written and spoken content, participate in workplace interactions, and produce clear written communication across a range of everyday and occupational contexts.