LSI/IH Portsmouth
Study at one of the best Language Schools in the UK!
LSI / IH Portsmouth was established in 1985 and is joint no. 1 English language centre in the UK, achieving 100% in our last British Council inspection.
LSI / IH Portsmouth offers English language classes in Portsmouth and online to adults (18+) to suit all abilities and needs. We run courses in General English, 30+, IELTS, Cambridge and OET Exam Preparation, Professional English and University Courses. We offer Teacher Training and are a CELTA training centre.
We have a fun social programme: activities include ping pong, coffee club, bowling, museum trips and excursions to cities including London and Oxford.
The school has 22 classrooms and a capacity of 160. Students and staff comment on the welcoming environment that makes LSI / IH Portsmouth a great place to be.
In the centre of Portsmouth, the UK’s only island city, LSI students can choose to enjoy the delights of a vibrant university town or spend time by the sea. With its rich heritage, Portsmouth has something for everyone from the Historic Dockyard to the designer outlet at Gunwharf Quays. The school is in the middle of the university district, giving opportunities to participate in local life at the university gym, library and social spaces.
Highlights
- Ranked joint no. 1 language school in British Council Inspection
- Wide variety of successful courses for all communication needs
- Adults only (18+) school
- Bespoke, specialist and executive courses available all year round
Programmes Offered
LSI/IH Portsmouth is a well-established, year-round English language school located in the vibrant coastal city of Portsmouth. We are proud to offer a wide variety of high-quality English language courses specifically designed for adult learners from around the world. Since 1985, we have built a strong reputation for delivering effective and engaging language training that meets the diverse needs of our students. Our school provides an extensive selection of courses that cater to a broad spectrum of goals, whether personal, academic, or professional.
What sets us apart is our commitment to personalised learning. Many of our courses can be taken in bespoke combinations, allowing students to tailor their study experience to their unique goals and preferences. Whether it’s English for travel, work, study, or personal enrichment, we can create a programme that suits our clients’ needs.
30+ and 30+ Intensive Programmes
Our popular 30+ and 30+ Intensive programmes are tailored for mature learners seeking a more focused and age-appropriate learning environment.
Professional Communication Training
Ideal for those looking to enhance their workplace communication skills.
Business Skills Development
Academic English
Specialist Courses designed to meet specific industry or career needs
CELTA/Teacher Training programmes
General English
Exam Preparation courses
Covering internationally recognised qualifications such as IELTS, OET, and Cambridge exams.
Military English
Offering targeted training for personnel in the armed forces.
English with Culture
Contact
Homestay
Our homestay accommodation is one of our greatest strengths! Situated no more than 40 minutes’ walk away from the school, our homestays have been hosting international students for many years and offer a warm and welcoming ‘home from home’ during your stay with us in Portsmouth, giving our students a unique insight into UK culture. They offer breakfast and dinner from Monday to Friday and 3 meals at weekends. Each homestay provides a single study bedroom with wifi and bedlinen and towels are provided.
Residence
For students who prefer to be more independent, there are a selection of self-catering options within walking distance of the school. These provide a study bedroom with kitchenette and ensuite bathroom with communal spaces.
- Homestay
- Residence
Portsmouth is the UK’s only island city, located on the beautiful south coast of England. Its unique setting, surrounded by the sea, offers a vibrant and inspiring environment for language students at a fraction of the cost of other similarly-sized cities. It has a rich maritime history, a lively cultural scene, and a welcoming community – it’s the perfect place to live and learn. Compact and easy to explore, the city is full of attractions—from the iconic Spinnaker Tower and Historic Dockyard to the creative energy of Southsea.
It’s also home to the University of Portsmouth, so there are plenty of student-friendly amenities, events, and social opportunities. Portsmouth is well-connected. With direct trains to London in under 90 minutes, and easy access to nearby cities like Brighton, Southampton, and Winchester, students can enjoy weekend trips and cultural excursions with ease. The city also has excellent coach, ferry, and international travel links, making it a convenient base for exploring the UK and beyond.
Exams
Our full-time exam preparation courses are carefully designed to help students learn and improve the skills they need to get the best possible grade in their chosen exam. Dynamic lessons are delivered by well-qualified teachers who keep students motivated and engaged and improve the general English level in all areas of communication. We offer full-time IELTS training and are able to offer training for all Cambridge exams including CAE and CPE as well as OET for specialist medical purposes. In addition, we are a teacher training centre and offer CELTA training for those who wish to pursue a teaching career.
More Features
Why Study at LSI/IH Portsmouth?
- We are proud to be the joint number one English language school in the UK, and recognised for being professional, friendly and inclusive.
- With over 40 years of experience, we offer a wide range of flexible courses for adults—General English, IELTS, OET, Business English, CELTA, Military English, Academic English and university pathways.
- Our expert teachers deliver personalised lessons in small classes, helping students progress quickly.
- Located in the UK’s only island city, Portsmouth offers a vibrant student community, seaside charm, and excellent transport links to London and beyond.



















