Plain English – ELP Exam Preparation

Summary

This 32-hour training programme prepares airport staff working operationally on the manoeuvring area for the English Language Proficiency assessment (ELP). The extended training format allows participants to develop their language skills progressively through several learning stages before proceeding to the assessment.

Participants begin by consolidating their basic knowledge of Plain English, using familiar everyday expressions and short, simple sentences. They then gradually expand their operational vocabulary, improve their ability to provide detailed information, and practise using Plain English alongside the appropriate ICAO phraseology.

The programme includes guided language practice, revision of ICAO phraseology, listening and speaking exercises, realistic operational scenarios, and progressive preparation activities. Participants learn how to understand and give instructions, clarify or confirm information, express opinions and intentions, describe events, and communicate effectively during routine, unexpected, abnormal, and critical situations.

Before proceeding to the ELP assessment, participants complete several preparation stages designed to strengthen their confidence, identify areas for improvement, and verify that they are ready for the formal evaluation.

Target Audience

Airport staff operational at the manoeuvring area.

Objectives

By the end of the training, participants will be able to:

• Use clear and concise Plain English in operational situations
• Combine Plain English correctly with ICAO phraseology
• Understand and use relevant airport and aviation terminology
• Communicate effectively with air traffic control in routine and unexpected situations
• Give and understand instructions and clarify information when necessary
• Describe and paraphrase operational situations to prevent misunderstandings
• Communicate effectively during abnormal and critical situations
• Improve their pronunciation, grammar, vocabulary, fluency, comprehension and interaction
• Identify their language strengths and areas for further improvement
• Complete the required preparation stages and approach the ELP assessment with greater confidence

Additional information

The training course consists of eight (8) modules of four (4) hours each.

To obtain the ELP certification, the candidate must then take an additional examination: the ELP assessment for the ICAO Language Proficiency Level 4 certificate.

This examination can be organised upon request.