Each year, we host and attend various in-person events, including training sessions, networking events and conferences. Join us at these events or watch our on-demand, recorded webinars to gain ideas and insights and get inspired.
Events are added to the calendar at different times throughout the year, so please check back regularly for the latest information.
Join our seminar to hear from our expert guest speakers on Values and National Security Education and celebrate with the winners of the Young Cultural Ambassador Awards.
Starting with a new primary class is exciting. It is also an important chance to build students' confidence and create a friendly classroom. Many children feel nervous on the first day, especially if they are learning English as an additional language. Simple speaking activities can help students relax, get to know each other and start using English naturally.
The best first-day activities are fun, easy to understand and do not put too much pressure on students. They should encourage everyone to speak, even if they only know a few words or short sentences.
Here are five speaking activities that are perfect for your first lesson with a new primary English class.
This classic activity gets students moving around the classroom while practicing simple questions and answers.
Before the lesson, prepare a worksheet with statements such as:
Students walk around the room asking questions like:
When they find a classmate who answers "Yes", they write that student's name next to the statement.
Students repeat the same phases several times, helping them remember key question forms. They also speak to many different classmates instead of only one partner.
Tip: For younger or lower-level learners, use pictures instead of written sentences to make the activity easier.
One of the biggest concerns about at-home English tests is whether technical issues could delay the testing experience. It's a fair question. Any online service can experience occasional technical problems, but today's remote testing platforms are designed with reliability, preparation and support in mind.
PTE Express has been built to minimize disruptions before, during and after the test, helping candidates complete their exams with confidence while ensuring institutions receive results as quickly as possible.
Preparation starts before test day. Candidates can complete a system readiness check at any time before their scheduled exam. This diagnostic tool confirms that their computer, internet connection, webcam, microphone and testing environment meet the technical requirements.
By identifying potential issues in advance, candidates have time to resolve them before their test begins, significantly reducing the likelihood of unexpected interruptions.
As a new school year begins, teachers and parents share the same goal: helping students return to learning with confidence.
After the long summer break, many learners are excited to see their friends again, but getting back into a school routine isn't always easy. Some students may be starting a new class, meeting a new teacher or preparing for important exams. For English language learners, returning to the classroom can also mean rebuilding confidence in using English every day.
A smooth transition back to school can help students feel more settled, engaged and ready to learn. Here are four practical ways teachers and families can support learners as they start the academic year.
"Organizing is what you do before you do something, so that when you do it, it's not all mixed up." – A. A. Milne
Strong routines help students know what to expect and reduce unnecessary stress during the first few weeks of school.
At home, families can hold a "back-to-school meeting" to agree on routines for the year ahead. This could include:
When everyone has a chance to contribute, it helps build routines that are realistic and easier to stick to. Writing these routines on a family planner or wall chart can also help everyone stay on track.
For English language learners, consistent routines can be especially helpful. Predictable study times create regular opportunities to practise reading, speaking or reviewing vocabulary, helping students build confidence throughout the school year.
"Early to bed and early to rise, makes a man healthy, wealthy, and wise." – Benjamin Franklin
Good sleep plays an important role in students' wellbeing, concentration and learning.
After the holidays, it can be difficult to switch from late nights back to early mornings. Rather than making sudden changes, encourage families to gradually move bedtimes earlier by 30 to 60 minutes over several days before school starts. This makes the adjustment much easier for everyone.
Reducing screen time before bed can also improve sleep quality. Ideally, children and adults should avoid screens for at least 30 minutes before going to sleep.
Well-rested students are more likely to stay focused, participate in class discussions and retain new vocabulary and language skills.
"When it's obvious that the goals cannot be reached, don't adjust the goals, adjust the action steps." – Confucius
Organization is a skill that develops over time and can make a significant difference to students' success.
As homework increases throughout the school year, parents and teachers can work together to help students develop good study habits.
Encourage learners to:
Introducing SMART goals can also help students take ownership of their learning:
Creating a quiet, organized study space at home also helps students stay focused. Parents can support learners by being available to answer questions, encouraging effort and celebrating progress—not just results.
For English language learners, homework routines might also include reading for a few minutes in English each day, reviewing vocabulary or practicing speaking with family members or classmates.
"Kids who grow up having family dinners, when they're on their own, tend to eat more healthily." – Anne Fishel
Busy schedules can make it difficult for families to spend time together, but sharing a meal provides a valuable opportunity to connect and talk about the day.
Simple conversations help children reflect on their experiences and build confidence expressing themselves. Families might ask questions such as:
Listening carefully and giving children your full attention shows that their thoughts and feelings matter. Even if weekday meals aren't always possible, planning time together at weekends can have lasting benefits.
For students learning English, these conversations can also provide valuable opportunities to practice new words, describe their day and build confidence communicating outside the classroom.
Returning to school is about more than buying new supplies or preparing lesson plans: it's about helping students feel ready to learn.
By establishing routines, encouraging healthy habits, supporting independent study and making time for meaningful conversations, teachers and families can work together to create a positive start to the school year.
Small, consistent actions during the first few weeks can help students settle in more quickly, rebuild confidence and develop habits that support successful learning throughout the year.
