The expression “take the plunge” is an idiom in English that means to make an important and risky decision, usually after thinking about it for a long time, or to dare to do something difficult or uncertain – essentially, “to take the step” despite the fears.

B2 First for Schools is an official Cambridge exam that certifies an upper-intermediate (B2) level of English according to the CEFR (Common European Framework of Reference). It is specifically designed for teenagers, with topics and content adapted to their age.

Who is it for?

• Teenagers aged 13 to 18 who already have a strong B1 level and want to:
  • Study in bilingual or international programmes.
  • Apply to universities or official exams that require a B2 level.
  • Improve their English for travel, leisure, and future studies.

Course objectives:

Develop the 4 skills (Reading, Writing, Listening, Speaking) to a level that allows students to:

• Communicate fluently in academic and social contexts.
• Understand complex texts (articles, reports, interviews).
• Write well-structured texts: essays, articles, formal and informal emails.
• Prepare to successfully pass the B2 First for Schools exam with confidence.

What does the course cover?

• Grammar: verb tenses, conditionals, passive voice, reported speech, modal verbs, etc.
• Vocabulary: idiomatic expressions, collocations, phrasal verbs, academic and current-topic vocabulary.
• Exam strategies: time management, reading and listening techniques, writing planning.
• Communicative practice: speaking simulations, debates, and presentations adapted to real-life situations.

Exam structure:

1. Reading & Use of English (1h 15min)
   • Reading comprehension (articles, blogs, adverts).
   • Grammar and vocabulary (gap-fills, sentence transformations, word formation).
2. Writing (1h 20min)
   • Writing 2 texts: compulsory essay + one from a choice of letter/email, article, report, or review.
3. Listening (approx. 40min)
   • Understanding conversations, interviews, radio programmes, and talks.
4. Speaking (approx. 14min, in pairs)
   • Talking about personal topics, discussing issues, and describing pictures.

Discounts:

• Friends and family: 10% per “new” student + 5% cumulative for each additional student, applicable for one term.
• Unemployed people: 25% discount on any fee for 1 student throughout the entire course (DARDE document)