Academic English Prep Programme (AEPP)
English Language Support
At One World International School (OWIS), we recognise that students need a strong level of English to access the curriculum successfully. Our Academic English Preparatory Programme (AEPP) provides intensive English language support for students in Grades 6 to 8 who need further preparation before joining mainstream classes.
Students remain a part of their grade level at OWIS while completing the AEPP. For example, a Grade 7 student would be enrolled in Grade 7 AEPP.
Our Academic English Prep Programme develops the English language skills students need to participate confidently in an English-speaking academic environment.
Academic English Preparatory Programme Curriculum
The AEPP combines intensive English language development with selected academic subjects, helping students build the language skills they need to participate confidently in an English-speaking academic environment while continuing to engage with a broader school curriculum.
Programme Structure
AEPP is a one-semester programme, with two intakes each academic year.
August intake
Students complete Semester 1, from August to December.
January intake
Students complete Semester 2, from January to July.
Students complete the full semester before transitioning out of AEPP. At the end of the semester, each student’s progress and readiness for mainstream learning are reviewed.
Students who are ready, move into mainstream classes. Students who require further English language development may complete one additional semester of AEPP.
For the 2026-2027 academic year, Semester 1 begins on 12 August 2026 and ends on 11 December 2026. Semester 2 begins on 5 January 2027 and ends on 17 June 2027.
What Students Learn
The English language component of AEPP focuses on developing the four key language skills students need for academic and everyday communication.
Speaking
Developing fluency and confidence through discussion, presentations and classroom interaction.
Writing
Developing the ability to write clearly and effectively for different academic purposes.
Reading and Viewing
Building comprehension, vocabulary and the ability to understand and respond to a range of texts.
Listening
Developing the ability to understand spoken English in academic and everyday contexts.
Additional Subjects
Students also study: Mathematics, Science, Drama, Learning to Learn, Physical Education and Reflection. This helps students develop their English while continuing to engage with a broader school curriculum.
Learning Outcomes
Upon completing the AEPP, students can expect significant improvements in their English language abilities:
Enhanced writing and oral communication skills.
Expanded vocabulary and improved grammar.
Developed study skills such as note-taking, time management, and self-management.
Increased confidence in using English in academic and social settings.
Learn More About Our English Language Preparation Course
Entry and Exit Criteria
Entry Criteria for AEPP
AEPP is intended for students in Grades 6 to 8 who need intensive English language support before joining mainstream classes.
As part of the admissions process, students complete a MAP Growth Reading assessment.
For students entering Grade 6 and above:
A MAP Reading score of 150 RIT or above indicates readiness to join mainstream classes.
Students scoring below 150 RIT will normally be referred to AEPP for additional English language preparation.
Placement decisions also consider the student’s:
Previous school reports
Academic history
English language assessment results
Overall readiness to access the OWIS curriculum
This helps us place each student in the learning environment that best meets their needs.
Transition to Mainstream Classes
Students are assessed throughout their semester in AEPP.
At the end of the semester, the school reviews each student’s readiness to transition into mainstream classes.
This decision considers:
● MAP Growth Reading data
● Progress throughout the semester
● Classroom performance
● Teacher assessment
● Academic performance
● The student’s overall readiness to access the mainstream curriculum
Students who are ready transition into mainstream classes at the end of the semester.
Students who require further intensive English language support may complete one additional semester of AEPP.
Transition decisions are not based on one assessment result alone. The school considers the student’s overall progress and readiness for mainstream learning.
Ongoing English Language Support
Some students may continue to receive English language support after moving into mainstream classes. The level of support will depend on the student’s individual needs. Students may receive:
- Enhanced English support: For students who require continued language assistance.
- Additional English support: For students who need some supplementary support.
- No additional support: For students who have achieved the required level of English
proficiency.
This allows students to continue developing their English while participating fully in mainstream classes.
Why Choose OWIS AEPP?
The OWIS AEPP stands out as a premier choice for English language preparation due to its unique
combination of personalised learning, immersive experiences, and seamless integration into the
mainstream curriculum.
- Tailored Support for Every Learner: The AEPP is designed to meet the unique needs of each
student, providing personalised attention and support to foster confidence and competence in
English. - Immersive Learning Environment: Students are immersed in an English-speaking environment,
accelerating their language acquisition and providing ample opportunities to practise their skills. - Integration with Mainstream Curriculum: The AEPP seamlessly prepares students to transition
into the mainstream curriculum at OWIS, ensuring they have the necessary language foundation
to succeed.
Beyond the AEPP, OWIS is dedicated to providing a holistic education that nurtures well-rounded individuals.
AEPP Frequently Asked Questions
What is AEPP?
The Academic English Prep Programme is an intensive English language programme for students in Grades 6 to 8 who need additional English preparation before joining mainstream classes at OWIS.
Students remain part of their OWIS grade level while completing the programme. For example, a Grade 7 student would be enrolled in Grade 7 AEPP.
What is the duration of the AEPP?
AEPP is a one semester programme. Students join either the August intake or the January intake and complete the full semester.
At the end of the semester, students who are ready move into mainstream classes. Students who require further English language development may complete one additional semester of AEPP.
When can students enrol in the AEPP?
We offer two intake periods for the AEPP each year: August and January.
Students join at the beginning of a semester and complete the full semester before their readiness to transition into mainstream classes is reviewed.
If you would like to make an inquiry about our programmes or your child’s eligibility, please reach out to us by contacting our admissions team or filling out the enquiry form. Our team will respond by the next working day.
Who is eligible to enrol in the AEPP?
AEPP is available to students entering Grades 6 to 8 who require intensive English language support before joining mainstream classes.
Students complete a MAP Growth Reading assessment as part of the admissions process. Students with a MAP Reading score below 150 RIT will normally be referred to AEPP.
The school also considers previous school reports, academic history and the student’s overall readiness to access the OWIS curriculum.
Can a student move into mainstream classes during the semester?
No, students need to complete the full AEPP semester.
Their readiness to move into mainstream classes is reviewed at the end of the semester.
What happens at the end of the semester?
At the end of the semester, the school reviews each student’s progress and readiness for mainstream learning.
This review considers MAP Growth Reading data, classroom performance, academic progress, teacher assessment and the student’s overall readiness to access the mainstream curriculum.
Students who are ready move into mainstream classes.
Students who require further intensive English language development may complete one additional semester of AEPP.
What happens if my child is not ready for mainstream classes after one semester?
Students who need further intensive English language support may complete one additional semester of AEPP.
Their progress will continue to be assessed throughout the second semester.
What subjects are covered in the AEPP?
The AEPP focuses strongly on English language development.
Students develop skills in Speaking, Writing, Reading and Viewing, and Listening. Students also study Mathematics, Drama, Learning to Learn, Physical Education, and Reflection.
This allows students to continue developing academically while improving their English.
How do you decide when a student is ready for mainstream classes?
The school considers a range of information before a student transitions into mainstream classes.
This includes:
- MAP Growth Reading data
- Progress throughout the semester
- Classroom performance
- Teacher assessment
- Academic performance
- Overall readiness to access the mainstream curriculum
Transition decisions are based on the student’s overall readiness and are not determined by one assessment result alone.
Will my child still receive English support after moving into mainstream classes?
Some students may continue to receive English language support after transitioning into mainstream classes.
The level of support will depend on the student’s individual needs and may include:
- Enhanced English language support
- Additional English language support
- No additional English language support
Are there any additional fees for the AEPP?
Yes. AEPP has its own semester based tuition fees.
Families should refer to the OWIS school fees page for the current AEPP fees for their campus.
What are the AEPP dates for the 2026 to 2027 academic year?
For the 2026 to 2027 academic year, the AEPP semester dates are as follows:
Semester 1
12 August 2026 to 11 December 2026
Semester 2
5 January 2027 to 17 June 2027
Students join at the beginning of the relevant semester and complete the full semester.