The official language of the U.K. is English; however, as London is one of the world's most culturally diverse cities, there are a number of English language schools scattered throughout the city to help non-native speakers learn the language. Many local colleges offer English courses to non-native speakers, and there are also special schools that cater specifically to expats and immigrants wishing to learn English. Some of the larger, more well-known English language institutes include:

EF International School of English
74 Roupell Street
London
SE1 8SS
UNITED KINGDOM
+44 (0)20 7401 8399
www.ef.com

The Hampstead School of English
553 Finchley Road
London
NW3 7BJ
UNITED KINGDOM
+44 (0)20 7794 3533
www.hampstead-english.ac.uk

The London School of English
15 Holland Park Gardens
London
W14 8DZ
+44 (0)20 7605 4123
www.londonschool.com

Saint George International Ltd.
79-80 Margaret Street
London
W1W 8TA
+44 (0)20 7299 1700
www.stgeorges.co.uk

UK School of English
71A South End
Croydon
CR0 1BF
UNITED KINGDOM
+44 (0)20 8686 3122
www.uk-school-of-english.com

West London College of English
90 Whitton Road
Hounslow
Middlesex
TW3 2DQ
+44 (0)20 8814 1114
www.wlce.co.uk

A comprehensive directory of private English language schools and state colleges and universities offering English courses can be found here.

Many of London's state-run primary and secondary schools offer English as a Second Language courses for children who are not native English speakers.

London's individual councils offer translation and interpreting services for residents who speak or write little or no English. Information about these services can be found on the official web site for each local council. For example, Camden's government web site is www.camden.gov.uk; specific information about their translation services can be found . There are also a number of independent, fee-based translation firms located throughout London.