Who can join the ELL Program at Southwestern Academy?

If English isn’t your first language and you’re ready to dive into a welcoming, international learning environment, you’re exactly who Southwestern Academy had in mind. The ELL Program is designed for middle and high school students from around the world who are eager to improve their English skills while studying in the U.S. No matter your starting level, whether you are a total beginner or just looking to polish your grammar, you’ll find your place here. The school understands that adjusting to a new country, a new school, and a new language all at once can be a lot. So they built a program to support you every step of the way, in and out of the classroom.

How many levels are in the ELL Program?

Three levels, but don’t worry, there’s no boss fight at the end of each one. The ELL Program at Southwestern Academy is thoughtfully broken down into Beginning, Intermediate, and Advanced levels, so students get exactly what they need, when they need it. Whether you’re learning your first English phrases or ready to debate Shakespeare, there’s a class tailored just for you. And the school doesn’t just toss you into a random level. They assess your skills to make sure you’re placed where you’ll learn best. Each level builds on the last, so by the time you hit Advanced, you’ll be writing essays, taking notes, and sliding smoothly into college prep courses.

What subjects are taught in each ELL level?

Each level of Southwestern’s ELL Program covers the English essentials: reading, writing, grammar, vocabulary, and conversation. But that’s just the beginning. At the Advanced level, students learn note-taking and prepare for more academic subjects. And when it’s time to start blending English with academics, Transition Classes kick in with subjects like General Science, Algebra I and II, Geometry, American Culture and History, and even arts exploration. It’s like getting two programs in one, language mastery and academic prep. By the time students move into mainstream classes, they’re not just ready to keep up. They’re ready to shine. The goal is confidence, fluency, and the kind of academic swagger that opens doors.

Is the ELL Program available year-round?

Yes, it is, and that’s great news if you’re not a fan of waiting lists or come-back-next-fall emails. Southwestern Academy offers its ELL Program throughout the entire year, so students can jump in when the timing works best for them. Whether you’re starting in September, January, or anywhere in between, the school makes sure you’re welcomed and supported from day one. This flexibility helps students ease into the program without feeling rushed or behind. It also means you can make steady progress at your own pace with no pressure to fit into a fixed schedule. Language learning isn’t one size fits all, and Southwestern totally gets that.

Southwestern Academy ELL Program: Learn English & Feel at Home

Let’s face it, moving to a new country and learning a new language at the same time isn’t easy. For international students, studying abroad is more than just adjusting to textbooks and tests; it’s about finding a new rhythm in a place that feels unfamiliar. That’s why the English Language Learners (ELL) Program at Southwestern Academy stands out. It doesn’t just teach students how to speak English, it helps them feel seen, supported, and truly at home.

I’m not affiliated with the school, but if I were an international student or the parent of one, this is exactly the kind of place I’d want to land.

Where English Learning Meets Real Belonging

Southwestern Academy’s ELL Program is built with intention—and it shows. Designed specifically for students whose first language isn’t English, the program has three levels: Beginning, Intermediate, and Advanced. Placement is based on individual skill, which means students don’t waste time repeating what they already know or skipping ahead too fast. Each level targets key areas like grammar, reading, writing, vocabulary, and conversation, including listening and speaking. By the time they reach the Advanced level, students are not only holding their own in English but also tackling college prep subjects with confidence.

There’s even a thoughtful transition phase, where students take academic classes like General Science, American History, and Algebra while continuing to build language skills. These transition courses act as a bridge, easing students into full integration with the school’s mainstream academic program. On average, it takes 18 to 24 months for a beginner to make that leap—but Southwestern makes sure every step is personalized and paced for success.

And because learning doesn’t end when class does, the ELL experience at Southwestern includes much more than academics. Students live on campus, join clubs, play sports, and make friends from around the world. It’s not just about gaining fluency—it’s about building confidence and connection. Students aren’t treated as temporary guests—they’re embraced as full community members.

A Place Where Language and Life Come Together

Southwestern Academy’s ELL Program isn’t just a set of courses. It’s a gateway. A support system. A community where students are challenged, encouraged, and celebrated as they grow into confident English speakers and capable scholars. The school understands that language is only part of the journey. The real magic happens when students start to feel like they belong—and that’s exactly what Southwestern delivers.

If you’re looking for a school that takes international students seriously, not just as learners, but as people, this is a place worth knowing about.

Need a Hand? Cardinal Education Can Strengthen Your Admission!

Interested in the many amazing opportunities at Southwestern Academy? The independent admissions consultants at Cardinal Education can offer expert guidance on private school admissions, helping students apply to top private schools like Southwestern Academy. With academic coaching, test prep, and private school admissions support, we ensure students present themselves as top candidates!

For expert insights on maximizing your child’s chances at Southwestern Academy, contact us today and let our experts guide you through the process.

Frequently Asked Questions

Who can join the ELL Program at Southwestern Academy?
If English isn’t your first language and you’re ready to dive into a welcoming, international learning environment, you’re exactly who Southwestern Academy had in mind. The ELL Program is designed for middle and high school students from around the world who are eager to improve their English skills while studying in the U.S. No matter your starting level, whether you are a total beginner or just looking to polish your grammar, you’ll find your place here. The school understands that adjusting to a new country, a new school, and a new language all at once can be a lot. So they built a program to support you every step of the way, in and out of the classroom.
How many levels are in the ELL Program?
Three levels, but don’t worry, there’s no boss fight at the end of each one. The ELL Program at Southwestern Academy is thoughtfully broken down into Beginning, Intermediate, and Advanced levels, so students get exactly what they need, when they need it. Whether you’re learning your first English phrases or ready to debate Shakespeare, there’s a class tailored just for you. And the school doesn’t just toss you into a random level. They assess your skills to make sure you’re placed where you’ll learn best. Each level builds on the last, so by the time you hit Advanced, you’ll be writing essays, taking notes, and sliding smoothly into college prep courses.
What subjects are taught in each ELL level?
Each level of Southwestern’s ELL Program covers the English essentials: reading, writing, grammar, vocabulary, and conversation. But that’s just the beginning. At the Advanced level, students learn note-taking and prepare for more academic subjects. And when it’s time to start blending English with academics, Transition Classes kick in with subjects like General Science, Algebra I and II, Geometry, American Culture and History, and even arts exploration. It’s like getting two programs in one, language mastery and academic prep. By the time students move into mainstream classes, they’re not just ready to keep up. They’re ready to shine. The goal is confidence, fluency, and the kind of academic swagger that opens doors.
Is the ELL Program available year-round?
Yes, it is, and that’s great news if you’re not a fan of waiting lists or come-back-next-fall emails. Southwestern Academy offers its ELL Program throughout the entire year, so students can jump in when the timing works best for them. Whether you’re starting in September, January, or anywhere in between, the school makes sure you’re welcomed and supported from day one. This flexibility helps students ease into the program without feeling rushed or behind. It also means you can make steady progress at your own pace with no pressure to fit into a fixed schedule. Language learning isn’t one size fits all, and Southwestern totally gets that.