How far, or, to what extent would parents go to ensure that their children acquire the highest proficiency possible in the English language? Well, the good news for local parents is, they don’t really have to go too far to realise this, for their children, and themselves as well! Established in 2005, Progressive Language Academy (also known as PLA) makes it easy to obtain the kind of coaching that will help make an individual excel in the English language, either in speaking, writing, listening or reading skills. It’s not surprising to find too that PLA is an established English language centre in Malaysia as well as many other countries example Thailand, Singapore, Sri Lanka, China, etc.
PLA is a part of HELEX (Hall of English Language Examinations), which is an Authorised Centre of Cambridge Assessment English (Cambridge English). As an independent and neutral organisation, the main objective of HELEX is to propagate the importance of an internationally-recognised English proficiency certificate from the University of Cambridge, UK. The association handles exam consultation, administration and registration while guiding schools and other educational institutions that are considering the Cambridge Assessment English.
Cambridge Assessment English is widely promoted to schools, colleges, and universities. After all, in most cases, the students must take the exam if they intend to further their studies overseas. Since PLA is an authorised exam centre for Cambridge Assessment English, the students have an option to sit for the exam in any PLA centres or the Principals for any schools/institutions can arrange with PLA to conduct the exam at their own venues for their students.
Why is PLA so popular?
There is no shortage of English language centres all over the country, and that in itself is a testimony of how important the language is for a successful life. When there are too many options to choose from, how do you pick out the best? We at Kiddy123 feel that reputation should be the key factor when picking out an English language centre for your child. Think about it - would you learn to play the piano from someone who knows how to play it well, or from someone who can play, but poorly? Similarly, the parents who would like their kids to acquire proficiency in English will surely pick a reputable organisation with highly qualified teachers for the job!
That is what PLA is, and its many awards and accolades testify to its stellar performance. In terms of outstanding and universally acknowledged English language certifications, the following are offered at PLA:
Cambridge English courses
We can’t really talk about English courses without at least thinking about Cambridge English, can we? Well, that’s because it is regarded as a global leader in English language exams. Cambridge is hands down a renowned name in English acquisition, coaching as well as assessment. Everywhere you go in the world, you will find that Cambridge English exams are recognised as the benchmark for English language excellence. PLA is offering the Cambridge English course which is aligned to the Common European Framework of Reference for Language (CEFR).
The foundation course for Pre-Young Learners aged 5-6 years old is called Pre-A1 Starters which aims to ensure that children learn to recognise the English alphabets, numbers, colours, basic words pronunciation and etc. Subsequently, the next levels for the Young Learners will be A1 Starters, A2 Movers and A2 Flyers. While the courses for Main Suite are A2 Key (KET), B1 Preliminary (PET), B2 First (FCE), C1 Advanced (CAE), C2 Proficiency (CPE).
Those who are interested in TEFL courses and certifications can go for the Teaching Knowledge Test (TKT), and Diploma in Teaching English to Speakers of Other Languages (DELTA).
Vocational English Certificate from University of Greenwich, United Kingdom
In response to the modern demands in professional English courses, Express Publishing and the University of Greenwich, United Kingdom have launched a partnership to develop and establish the Vocational English Certification (VEC). PLA is an authorised training centre for VEC. Those seeking intensive professional English courses will find the greatest value in the Vocational English Certificate from the University of Greenwich, United Kingdom. This course will help the individuals to improve their knowledge of basic English terminology in that professional field so that they can use the language skills they gain immediately and for the rest of their careers. Vocational English Certificate is available for more than 50 professions. Currently, PLA is only offering Business English and English for Sales and Marketing and more titles will be offered in the future. This is a short course suitable for those busy professional adults as the students are only required to complete 50 credit hours of online lessons. The students require to sit for the examinations at the end of the course. A certification of attendance and examination will be provided upon completion.
In conclusion
PLA is the sole distributor for Express Publishing (UK) in Malaysia and Thailand. All the courses offered by PLA are leveraging the English learning materials from Express Publishing (UK). All these English materials come with DigiBook and Interactive Whiteboard Software for students and teachers which consists of fun games, quizzes, word lists, crosswords, videos, songs, etc.
