
English Language Learning
English Language Students
Free English language tutoring and conversation classes for adults who live or work in Needham.
English Language Tutors
Volunteer tutors help students who are new to English: an enriching and satisfying experience.
Current Events
Events for our ELL Students and Tutors to enrich their learning.
English Language Students

Student Info

Who Can Participate in the Program?
- Adults who live or work in Needham are welcome.
- Complete the “Sign Up Here” above. We will contact you to match you with a tutor.
- There is no cost – all tutoring is FREE
- All levels of learners are welcome!
How Long do Students Meet with a Tutor?
- We ask that students meet at least an hour weekly for at least nine months.
- Of course you and your tutor can take vacations.
When and Where do Students and Tutors Meet?
- Students meet weekly with tutors in the morning, afternoon, evening, or on weekends for about an hour.
- Both in person and on Zoom
- Space is available at Needham Community Council either outdoors or in the building
- At the Needham Free Library
Additional Student Resources
Try these on-line resources: ELL Student Resources
Helpful local community resources: ELL Focused Community Resources
Contact Info
Please email the ELL Program Manager, Julie Tovar, at
jtovar@needhamcouncil.orgLearning Opportunities

Current Group Classes Available
Many of the classes listed below are going on break for the summer. Please contact Julie Tovar at jtovar@needhamcouncil.org to learn more about rejoining them in the Fall.
Beginner + (Advanced Beginners) Group
Fridays 11 am
Needham Community Council
Join us to practice vocabulary and conversation. Registration required.
Beginner or Intermediate Conversation ONLINE Group
Weds 6:30 pm on ZOOM
Beginner or intermediate level welcome. Registration required.
Intermediate Conversation Group
Tuesdays 1 pm
Needham Community Council
Discuss current events and read short news articles. Registration required.
Intermediate Citizenship Group
Saturdays 9:30
Needham Community Council
This class will help you prepare for the US Citizenship interview and test.
Students should have an intermediate level of English and possess a green card. Registration
required.
Intermediate/Advanced Short Story Group
Tuesdays 9:30-11:15 am
On ZOOM
This group will read and discuss short stories and practice conversation. Feb-May
English Learning for All Levels
We offer all different types of learning for all different levels of learners. Find the one that works best for you! We are beginning our ELL groups and expanding our offerings. Contact the office if you are interested in joining one of the groups.
- Individual Tutoring
- Group Lessons
- Conversation Groups
- On-line or In person meetings
- Special Events
Contact Info
Please email the ELL Program Manager, Julie Tovar, at
jtovar@needhamcouncil.org or call 781-444-2415 for more information.
English Language Tutors

Tutor Info

How do I Become a Tutor?
- Twice a year, Spring and Fall, we run a tutor training program for new tutors.
- If you are interested and over 18, we encourage you to fill out the Tutor Interest Form to begin the process.
- We will contact you to discuss the available opportunities
- Tutors are required to complete training classes which take place over several evenings.
- A CORI form is required.
What Makes an Effective Tutor?
Tutors DO NOT need to know the language of their student or have teaching experience.
- Being flexible, welcoming, and open to other cultures is essential.
- The training workshop provides a variety of techniques for teaching without the need for translation.
- A good ELL tutor can speak English fluently, articulate clearly, and is familiar with American culture.
- We support tutors with resources and training.
Different Tutor Opportunities
- Individual Tutoring
- Group Lessons
- Conversation Groups
- On-line or In person meetings
- Special Events – field trips, cooking classes, knitting group
What’s the Time Commitment?
- We ask that tutors and students participate for at least 9 months, meeting once a week.
- Most meetings last for 1 to 1.5 hours.
When and Where do Students and Tutors Meet?
- Students meet weekly with tutors in the morning, afternoon, evening, or on weekends for about an hour.
- Both in person and on Zoom
- Many students prefer to meet virtually
- Space is available at Needham Community Council either outdoors or in the building
- At the Needham Free Library
What do English Language Learners Want to Learn?
- Most learners want to improve their listening comprehension and speaking skills to communicate better with co-workers, neighbors, school and medical personnel, on the phone, etc.
- Many need to read and write better for everyday life or employment.
- Many students want to become more familiar with American culture.
- Some have a specific goal in mind, such as getting a job, a driver’s license, or a GED, becoming a U.S. citizen, or passing a college entrance test.
Other Resources

Websites Resources for Tutors
There are a number of on-line resources we recommend for tutors of all levels of students.
Current ELL Events

Event Information

Walk & Talks are back in June
Join other learners and tutors for a casual Walk & Talk around Needham.
Tuesday, June 6th & Tuesday, June 27th
10:30 am – 11:30 am
Meet at the Council at 570 Hillside Avenue
Free. This is a chance to meet others and learn from each other. Adult English language learners and fluent English speakers are invited to chat while enjoying the fresh air. All levels welcome! We will walk for about 60 minutes and return to our starting point. These walks are led by dedicated ELL volunteer, Beth Crastnopol.