Unite ESOL Course Helps Workers Build Confidence at HPC

Unite’s ESOL course at Hinkley Point C has helped workers improve their English, build confidence and communicate more effectively at work and in their daily lives.

The course was organised by Declan, Unite Branch Learning Rep and Health and Safety Rep at HPC, with support from Sam Thomas and Skarlat Rodriguez. After nearly two years of work to get the course started, the first classes began in September 2025 and continued for 32 weeks.

Unite funded the course, with two-hour classes held every Tuesday and Wednesday. A total of 22 students started the course across Entry Levels 1 to 3. Due to redundancies and some workers moving onto night shifts, 16 students remained. 13 students took the exam on 8 June 2026, with 12 passing and 1 student preparing to resit.

Students said the course helped remove communication barriers and gave them more confidence when speaking, writing and understanding English. This has helped them both at work and in their personal lives. Better communication also supports health and safety by helping workers understand instructions and what is happening around them.

One student said:

“I feel much more confident communicating at work, participating in meetings and writing reports. The classes were friendly, interactive and well organised.”

Another student explained:

“Not only me, but my coworkers and supervisors can see the improvement in my English. I feel much more confident in my communication, both at work and in my life.”

Following the success of the first course, Declan and Sean Hughes are now working to organise another two ESOL classes for September 2026, involving 22 students. EDF will fund the new courses after being impressed by the feedback and the positive impact the programme has had on people’s lives.

New laptops will also be provided, along with a private classroom to give students a better learning environment.

Declan said:

“It has been a real experience and an honour to be involved. Seeing the students progress from having broken or very little English to completing their exams has been an immense achievement.”

A big thank you to Declan, Skarlat, Sam, Sean, tutor Ben, Unite, EDF and everyone who helped make the course possible. Most importantly, congratulations to all the students for their commitment and achievement. This is another great example of how Unite supports its members, not only in the workplace but also by creating opportunities that improve their confidence, skills and everyday lives. Unite is here to support, represent and help its members develop.

If you would like to take part in the next ESOL course, please visit the Unite West Office for more information.