Raters Course

This course is intended for teachers of aviation English and aviation professionals who are required to assess and rate the English language capabilities of pilots, air traffic controllers and other aviation professionals, according to the Language Proficiency Requirements of the International Civil Aviation Organisation (ICAO), as set out in ICAO Document 9835. The participants' level of English language should be advanced.

As an approved UK CAA language Assessment Body (LAB), we use our considerable experience in test development and language assessment to guide trainees through the course. The training concentrates on interpreting the language criteria of the ICAO Rating Scale and applying them by listening to and assessing sound files of various non-native speaker aviation professionals. It is suitable for trainees who have little or no experience in ICAO language assessment as well as raters seeking annual refresher training as set out in ICAO Document 9835.

Pre-Course Tasks

The Rater pre-course tasks are designed to focus and prepare participants on ICAO Doc. 9835 and some of the key information needed for this intensive course.

Course content

30 Lessons in a closed professional group, supplemented by guided private study.

The following areas will normally be covered:

• Evaluating and comparing different test types (e.g. for ab-initio trainees or trained professionals, direct or semi-direct, including computerised tests)

• Identifying the criteria for ICAO levels in: Listening (general comprehension, interpretation and discrimination) Speaking (accuracy, intelligibility and communicative competence)

• Defining and evaluating appropriate levels of competence in communication skills, and the 6 criteria of the ICAO Rating Scale.

• Practical exercises in rating trainees’ performance at various levels of the ICAO Rating Scale, with emphasis on Levels 3 - 5.

• Identifying areas for development in failed candidates’ performance, and guiding them towards improving their language proficiency.

• Blind rating assessments for standardisation purposes and to assess the course participants’ level of competency using the Anglo-Continental Test of English for Aviation Personnel.