British Council’s English courses for adults are designed to help professionals succeed, with exclusive discounts just for SAFRA members.
Strong communication is a career game-changer, especially in today’s global workplace. But beyond the boardroom, it also plays a big role in our everyday lives.
For Singaporean professionals, being able to express yourself clearly in English can help you connect better with colleagues, resolve conflicts more effectively, and build stronger relationships both at work and at home. So, investing in your English communication skills can certainly reap some benefits.
Level up your English communication skills with the British Council
If you’re ready to improve your English and open up new opportunities, the British Council in Singapore has the right courses for you. Established in Singapore in 1947, the British Council is the UK’s international organisation for cultural relations and educational opportunities. Today, it continues to support Singaporeans through high-quality English language education, exam preparation, and cultural exchange programmes.
With two centres located at Toa Payoh and Napier Road, classes are held in interactive classrooms equipped with smart tech like whiteboards and iPads to support more engaging learning. Students enrolled in English courses for adults can also access myClub, the British Council’s online global community which allows students to practise English in real-world settings.
Whether you’re looking to grow in your career, prep for a move abroad, or simply speak more confidently day-to-day, the British Council has a course designed for your goals. Additionally, now’s the perfect time to sign up. From 14 April to 25 May 2025, SAFRA members can enjoy 20% off course fees and stand a chance to win prizes in an exclusive lucky draw. Read on to find out more about this promotion, as well as find a course that’s the most suitable for you.
1. IELTS Coach courses
If you’re planning to work, study, or live abroad, taking the IELTS test is a key first step. It’s the world’s most widely recognised English language test. And with the British Council as one of its official co-creators, you’ll be learning from the best.
Their IELTS Coach courses are designed to help you achieve the band score you need, while building your confidence and sharpening your exam skills along the way.
There are two options available: the Intermediate course, which is ideal for learners at CEFR level B1 to B2, and the Upper-Intermediate course for those already confident in English and aiming for a band score of 6.5 or higher. Depending on your level, you’ll work on key test strategies—like interpreting charts and graphs, writing opinion essays, or tackling comprehension texts.
All classes are led by experienced teachers who specialise in IELTS, and you can even book your course and IELTS test together, with the option to take a computer-based test any day of the week in Singapore. Both courses are UTAP claimable for NTUC and NTUC Starter members, with up to 50% unfunded course fee support. Terms and conditions apply.
Find out more about British Council’s IELTS Coach courses.
Who is it for: Those preparing for the IELTS for work, study, or migration overseas.
2. Business English Courses
Strong English skills are essential in today’s workplace, especially in Singapore’s globalised economy. Whether you’re leading meetings, writing reports, or networking with clients, the ability to communicate clearly and professionally in English can make all the difference. Not only does it boost your credibility, it can also open doors to better job opportunities and higher salaries.
The Business English course by the British Council is designed for working professionals who want to use English more effectively in the workplace. Taught in small class sizes (maximum 16 students), the part-time course focuses on helping you speak more naturally in a business setting, expand your vocabulary, and improve your writing skills.
You’ll also learn how to contribute more confidently to meetings, discussions, and presentations. With personalised content and corporate-focused training, this course is suitable for adult learners at CEFR levels B1 to B2 who are ready to take their professional communication to the next level.
Find out more about British Council’s Business English courses.
Who is it for: Working professionals looking to improve their workplace communication.
3. General English Courses
For those looking to improve their English for work, social settings or everyday life, the General English course is a great place to start. Designed for adult learners, this 40-hour part-time course focuses on building your confidence in speaking and listening, while also helping you develop stronger grammar and vocabulary skills for daily use.
By the end of the course, you’ll be able to speak English more fluently and confidently, listen to and understand spoken English with greater ease, and read a variety of texts with better comprehension. You’ll also learn to write with improved accuracy and impact, while expanding your vocabulary to communicate more effectively in different situations.
The British Council also offers eight General English courses tailored to specific language needs:
- General English Course (UTAP claimable)
- Speak with Confidence – Foundation (UTAP claimable)
- Speak with Confidence – Essential (UTAP claimable)
- Speak with Confidence – Plus (UTAP claimable)
- Grammar Essential Course
- Grammar Plus Course
- Say It Clearly Course (UTAP claimable)
- Interpersonal Communication Skills Course
Not sure which one to go for? The 40-hour General English course is a safe and solid starting point for anyone who wants to use English more comfortably in everyday conversations. This course is suitable for learners at CEFR levels A2, B1, B1+, B2 and C1. It’s also UTAP claimable, making it a smart choice for NTUC members looking to upskill.
Find out more about British Council’s General English courses.
Who is it for: Adults who want to strengthen their overall English for daily conversations
SAFRA members enjoy 20% off British Council courses & a chance to win a lucky draw
One thing to note is that depending on which course you choose, each has its own start dates and fees, split into 5 terms. Besides enjoying UTAP claimable benefits for the IELTS Coach and General English courses, SAFRA members can also enjoy 20% off course fees when registering for both Term 2+ and Term 3 together as a bundle. This exclusive promotion runs from 14 April to 25 May 2025, and is open to all SAFRA members and their dependent members.
Here’s how to redeem the 20% discount:
- Book a consultation here.
- Enter the promo code ‘SAFRA20’ next to your first name in the consultation booking (Example: If your name is Jane Tan, input “Jane – SAFRA20”)
- After submitting the form, email a screenshot of your SAFRA membership card (showing full name, SAFRA membership number, and card expiry from your SAFRA app) to contact@britishcouncil.org.sg
- You will receive an acknowledgement receipt within three working
That’s not all—three SAFRA National Service Association members who sign up will also stand a chance to win $50 Grab vouchers each in a SAFRA-exclusive lucky draw. Three winners will be selected and notified via email in June 2025.
There’s no better time to invest in your English and enjoy extra perks while you’re at it. For more information, visit British Council.
This post was brought to you by the British Council.
