23/07/2026
📚 60 Second Spotlight: .london 📚
This week we’re spotlighting English for Action (EFA). We met Anne McConnell, English for Speakers of Other Languages (ESOL) teacher and Community Organiser, who shared how this grassroots charity is reimagining English language learning through participatory ESOL and community organising.
What makes English for Action so special is that learning extends far beyond the classroom. Working with around 550 students across London, the charity combines English lessons with discussions about the real issues people face every day, with a focus on developing skills that empower students to influence decision-makers, advocate for change and become active leaders within their communities.
The team is also exploring creative approaches like Forum Theatre, where students develop and perform plays based on their experiences of migration and the challenges they have come up against, inviting audiences to help find solutions. It’s a powerful way to build confidence, develop public speaking skills and inspire meaningful conversations that lead to action. 🎭
As a recipient of the Team London Bridge Building Communities Fund, English for Action has been able to expand its work through the Walworth Living Room Project ( ), helping even more students to learn language and make change over the past year. The funding has enabled the team to grow its activities and continue creating opportunities for people to build confidence, develop leadership skills and make a lasting difference in their communities.
