A: The “English Outdoors” concept is specifically designed to immerse students in NYC life and culture, giving students the unique opportunity to practice their English in authentic NYC settings. English Outdoors means ‘outside of the classroom’ but not necessarily outside in a park: morning English classes take place in both indoor and outdoor locations all over the city. Instead of being in the same classroom, students will learn in a new iconic and authentic place every day. This immersive classroom experience allows students to learn English and make the most of NYC in a socially distant manner, all the while enjoying the best views and sights the city has to offer.

A: Being immersed in the life and culture of NYC adds a unique element to the classroom experience, as students are able to truly experience NYC life and culture first-hand in authentic settings. NYC related topics and destinations are incorporated into the class curriculum by utilizing regular educational and cultural field trips as well as with the daily outdoor classroom destinations. Students are in the unique position to improve their English, expand their knowledge about NYC, be able to practice their English in truly authentic NYC settings, and live like a true New Yorker!

A: The city becomes the classroom! BSL’s morning classes take place in locations (both indoor and outdoor) all over the city. There is a range of indoor locations for rainy days or when it is too hot in summer/too cold in winter, so lessons are guaranteed every day, whatever the weather.

Some examples of outdoor locations include Brooklyn Bridge Park, Bryant Park, Cobble Hill Park, Madison Square Park, Shakespeare Garden…

Some examples of indoor locations include Brookfield Place, Essex Market, Industry City…

A: Yes and yes! Locations have been carefully chosen based on comfort, space, ease of access, points of interest close by, the proximity of public restrooms, etc. They take place in small classes of 6 students maximum (average 3/4). Students seat around a table, in semi-circular seating, or in a row. 

A: Teachers continue to carry out the current BSL teaching methodology with this new concept. They utilize the coursebook, supplementary materials, and mini-whiteboards to target key grammar and vocabulary points throughout each class. They also use technology in the form of iPads and smartphones to further engage students throughout each lesson, just like with our previous indoor classes.

Students also continue to complete homework assignments regularly and are assessed on course language objectives weekly. Classes are rich in cultural content and conversation and also include regular cultural and educational field trips around the city.

A: Every BSL instructor has–at a minimum–a Bachelor’s degree in TESOL, linguistics, or a related field, and a TEFL/TESOL/CELTA certificate. Before being selected to work at BSL, the teachers are first interviewed face-to-face by the Academic and Programs Manager or School Director and are then required to give a teaching demonstration class, thus ensuring they possess both the necessary teaching and native-level English language skills.

A: Yes, just like in a regular classroom setting. In addition, students complete coursebook assignments, participate in pair work and discussion, and get the added bonus of a hands-on approach to learning about NYC!

A: If it rains, gets too hot or too cold, classes will switch to an indoor venue or be taken on one of many cultural or educational field trips located in indoor locations. New York City is full of great museums and semi-secret indoor public spaces.

A: This is one of the advantages of being outdoors: students will make the most of the space and natural airflow rather than being inside in a crowded classroom and using Air Conditioning. Students and teachers will have ample room to socially-distance. Bringing a mask and a small bottle of hydroalcoholic gel to sanitize their hands as often as needed are always recommended.

A: Homestays are located in Brooklyn, on average 30 minutes by subway to Brooklyn Heights and 35-40 minutes by subway to Lower Manhattan. The school alternates between locations in Brooklyn and Manhattan for lessons so that students don’t always have to travel to Manhattan every morning, and also because there are plenty of great locations to explore in Brooklyn!

A: There is plenty to do and see in New York so you will never get bored! The school organises 2 to 3 social activities per week which you are welcome to join (walking tours, happy hours, lunches, museums…) and also gives you plenty of suggestions of things to do in your free time (famous sights, hidden gems, festivals, markets…)

The school’s daily location guides also include many cool ideas for things to do and places to visit in the area after class.

A: Yes. You can book with peace of mind knowing that the school will refund your course in full should you be unable to travel due to COVID. We just ask that you give us enough notice when you cancel: 72 hours for a course only booking (i.e. the Friday before the course starts) and 7 days if you have booked homestay.