English language

Trinity's English language exams focus on communicative and integrated language skills that people of all ages and from all walks of life need to perform in today's interconnected world. Our range of qualifications covers every stage of learning, from beginner to advanced.

Graded Examinations in Spoken English (GESE)

Trinity's English language exams focus on communicative and integrated language skills that people of all ages and from all walks of life need to perform in today's interconnected world. Our range of qualifications covers every stage of learning, from beginner to advanced. 

The Graded Examinations in Spoken English (GESE) is a suite of oral proficiency tests which assess general English ability at 12 proficiency levels. GESE is a direct interview between an individual candidate and an examiner. There are 12 grades (levels), which provide a continuous measure of linguistic competence and take the learner from absolute beginner (Grade 1, below A1 CEFR) to full mastery (Grade 12, C2 CEFR).

The exam content simulates real-life exchanges in which the candidate and the examiner pass on information, share ideas and opinions, and debate topical issues. The GESE suite is designed for speakers of languages other than English and can be sat by test takers from 5 years and above. Typically, candidates are in full time education and are mainly younger learners or young adults. Adults taking GESE do so for work, migration or general interest.

“The way the examiners engage with the candidates is perfect - they are invited to discuss and enjoy the conversation.”

Maria Virginia Basile, Teacher
Liceo Scientifico S. Valentini, Italy

Integrated Skills in English (ISE)

The Integrated Skills in English (ISE) exam is an English language qualification offered at five levels of the Common European Framework from A2–C2. We are currently developing a complementary A1 level that will be suitable for learners aged 10 years old and upwards. ISE is a general proficiency four-skills exam that assesses the candidate’s reading, writing, listening and speaking skills through integrated assessment and learning. It meets the needs of learners who are required to demonstrate their control of functional communicative English, and their abilities in comprehension, expression and interaction in everyday educational and employment settings. The test supports both teachers and learners as the activities within it promote communicative methodologies and practice in the classroom.

Typical ISE candidature ranges from young learners at the end of primary or just starting secondary education through middle/high school and teenage learners to adults wishing to pursue their education or careers.

“We chose Trinity ISE because of its focus on authentic communicative skills.”

Peter Lahiff, Academic Director
Future Learning, Ireland

English Language Teaching Qualifications 

Trinity’s English language teaching qualifications are designed to support teachers throughout their careers — from early practitioner to experienced professional. 

• The Trinity Certificate for Practising Teachers (CertPT) promotes the development of specialist pedagogical knowledge and skills to support the professional development of English language teachers. Depending on course provider arrangements, teachers can learn through face-to-face, online or blended courses. Teachers have the option of submitting their written assignments solely in English, or bilingually in English and Spanish or English and Mandarin Chinese. Allowing the submission of assessment tasks in these languages extends access to Trinity-certified professional development to practising teachers working in a range of different local teaching contexts. Additional language options can be added on request. 
• Trinity Teach English Online is a flexible online self-study course for teachers who are new to teaching online. It can lead to a Trinity Certificate in Online Teaching (CertOT). 
• The Teaching Young Learners Extension Certificate (TYLEC) is an in-service qualification designed to equip qualified teachers with the skills and knowledge to teach 7-16 year-olds. 
• The Trinity Certificate in TESOL is an initial teacher training qualification that will equip participants with the basic skills and knowledge they need for their first post as an English language teacher. 
• The Trinity Diploma in TESOL is a qualification for experienced teachers of English language, designed to encourage the development of professional knowledge and expertise and refine practical teaching skills.