Tell us about yourself.
I was born in Bangladesh, but now live in Stafford. I have a husband and four children.
I have always enjoyed learning, but equally I am quite shy, particularly at communicating with speaking skills.
Lifechanging Experiences as an ESOL Learning: Q&A: Jesmin Khandaker Zahir
01 July 2026
Mum of four, Jesmin joined our English for Speakers of Other Languages (ESOL) programme to improve her English skills to support her children with their homework. Having worked through a number of ESOL levels at Stafford College, her aim is now to volunteer in a school.
"My tutor has raised my confidence levels with lots of praise and has never expected me to answer if I wasn't sure. My writing skills have developed considerably to an academic level and I am now a confident writer."
Jesmin Khandaker Zahir - ESOL (Entry 2 & 3, Level 1 and Level 2, Advanced ESOL)
Why did you choose to study an ESOL course at Stafford College?
I live in Stafford so it's easy to get to.
What was your reason for signing up for the course?
I knew little English and did not have the confidence to speak at all. I wanted to improve my English to build my confidence in daily life activities and support my children's homework. My first course was the ESOL Entry 2 course and then I progressed onto Entry 3, Level 1 and then Level 2. I found Level 1 and 2 a massive challenge as I had to prepare presentations for the exam. However, I have persevered through resilience and through the support of my friends and my tutor.
Describe how you felt on your first day at college?
I naturally get slightly anxious about meeting people anyway, so going to the first class was nerve racking. But I felt at ease quickly and I didn't feel the pressure to answer questions right away. I felt comfortable with my peers which was a big relief.
How do your tutors help you to improve your English skills?
My tutor has helped me to have confidence in myself by offering lots of praise. She didn't push me to answer questions in front of anybody and there was never any expectations to speak in front of the rest of the class. However, there was a great expectation to do homework and achieve grammatical accuracy. My writing skills have developed considerably to an academic level and I am a confident writer.
Have you made lots of new friends by studying at NSCG?
Yes I love all of my friends at college! Besides learning, we have fun. We always share a joke and in classes, everyone feels comfortable. I have made one best friend and we do lots of activities together including going to the gym.
Has studying an ESOL course helped you with the world of work?
Last year, I volunteered to teach some of the catering students to cook Bangladeshi food at the ESOL Cultural Event. I thoroughly enjoyed this and talking about my recipes was wonderful, so I hope to keep building on these kinds of experiences and volunteer.
5 years ago when I started ESOL, I was a completely different person so this has been lifechanging for me to get to this point.
Once you finish this course, would you like to study another ESOL course?
Next academic year, I would like to do an employability course and learn how to develop my CV, to write cover letters, develop interview skills and how to deal with colleagues in a work place. I would also like to do some digital courses.
What would your advice be to anyone thinking of studying an ESOL course?
Don't be scared to start. Teachers are supportive. Try to be consisten and don't give up as it will be worth it in the long term.