NEW College has been approved as a provider of free courses to people in English as a second language.

The ELLIS course is a computer-based course which uses video clips showing everyday situations - such as meeting people, shopping, finding somewhere to live, visiting the doctor and going to job interviews - to help students learn.

Students can practise speaking English by recording their own voice and listen to words and phrases as often as they like.

They can also learn more about grammar.

Help is available in 23 different languages, including Arabic, Cantonese, Hindi, Punjabi, Somali, Thai and Urdu.

A NEW College spokesman said: "These courses are completely free and are available to learn at your own convenience at online@redditch, Grosvenor House, Prospect Hill, Redditch."

Student Daniel Moc said: "I am enjoying my ELLIS course very much.

"It's easy to follow and I like the centre because the staff are so welcoming."

For more details and bookings, call 61246.