CHILDREN'S PROGRAM

The ACE Children's Program (CP) is specifically designed for children from 8 to 10 years of age. The program is conducted part-time. The full duration of the program is 8 terms (2 years). Children take an oral placement test with a trained children’s testing specialist and the outcome of the test determines their English level for ACE (from Beginner to Pre-intermediate). As most young students already know some English when they arrive at ACE, few need to follow the full program from CP levels 1 to 8. When the children in the program turn 11 years of age, they automatically move into the ACE Young Learners’ Program at the appropriate level.

Program Features

The Children’s Program includes materials and teaching methods that suit the needs of young children. Important skills such as phonics and English literacy are part of the program for beginners to give students a sound foundation in their language studies. The students then progress to develop their range of vocabulary, understanding of English grammar, reading skills, and much more.  The lessons are highly visual and incorporate movement and staged activities which support the students in their learning. It is not a requirement for CP students to be literate in English before they start classes at ACE.

All of the learning takes place in a supportive and fun atmosphere. The students enjoy learning English through practicing interesting educational tasks. At this age children not only need to acquire language, but also need assistance with developing their cognitive abilities, motor skills and social interaction. By focusing on the whole child, the ACE CP program helps students to build the skills needed for successful study at a later stage.

Materials

ACE uses an innovative and fun series of textbooks for the Children’s Program. This series ensures the students receive a comprehensive start to their language learning, in a fun environment. The material takes advantage of young students’ enquiring minds and engages them in exciting activities in a supportive atmosphere.

Class Size

A maximum of 21 students is permitted in the Children’s Program at ACE Phnom Penh and 22 at ACE Siem Reap.

Teachers on the Program

Students are taught by Cambodian national teachers. All of the teachers have a university degree in Teaching English as a Foreign Language and so are well-trained and knowledgeable in the specialised area of teaching English to young children. ACE ensures that teachers have high quality skills and ability by providing regular professional development for all teaching staff. The focus of this professional development for CP teachers is on the skills needed to teach this young age group.

Certificate

Upon completion of the program, all CP students receive an ACE certificate and can advance to the appropriate level in the ACE Young Learners’ Program.