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Course Level · C1
English C1 – Proficient Language Use
Argue fluently, negotiate with nuance, respond spontaneously – in English, at the highest level. With native-speaking trainers and AI avatar exercises for daily speaking practice.
From €90 / 90 min · VAT-exempt
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Overview
English C1 – Fluent, Nuanced, Persuasive
The C1 level of the Common European Framework of Reference (CEFR) denotes proficient language use. At this level, you understand demanding, longer texts and grasp implicit meanings. You express yourself fluently and spontaneously without noticeably searching for words. In a professional context, this means: you conduct complex negotiations in English, deliver persuasive presentations to international audiences, and argue with nuance in meetings – all with the linguistic confidence that executives and subject-matter experts require.
15+Years
10+Trainers
50+Corporate clients
From B2 to Near-Native Competence
At Simmonds Language Services, the C1 course is designed for professionals who already have good English skills at B2 level and want to take the decisive step towards near-native competence. Our native-speaking trainers from the UK and USA work specifically on the subtleties that make the difference between 'good' and 'outstanding' English: idiomatic expressions, cultural nuances, stylistic variety, and the ability to switch register appropriately. Every training session is based on real scenarios from professional life – not textbook exercises, but practical language training.
Practise Daily with the AI Avatar
What makes our C1 course special is the blended learning concept: in addition to live sessions with your personal trainer, you can practise at any time with our AI avatar technology. The avatar simulates demanding conversational situations – from panel discussions to contract negotiations to spontaneous small talk at a conference. You receive immediate feedback on grammar, word choice, idiomatic usage, and fluency. This means you train at C1 level every day, not just during the weekly lesson. This intensive practice format significantly accelerates your progress and gets you to your goal faster: proficient, persuasive language use in every professional situation.
The Path from B2 to C1
The path from B2 to C1 requires not just more vocabulary, but a deeper understanding of the English language. At C1 level, you master complex grammatical structures intuitively, recognise subtle differences in meaning between synonyms, and adapt your language style to different contexts. You can write academic texts, compose detailed reports, and defend your position with compelling arguments in discussions. Our course trains all these competences systematically, with a clear focus on the communicative requirements of your specific professional field. Whether engineering, finance, law, or management – we tailor the training to your industry and your individual goals.
What You Will Learn
Communicate fluently and spontaneously without searching for words. Argue with nuance and persuade effectively. Conduct complex negotiations confidently in English. Switch register appropriately (formal/informal). Pass C1 certificate exams (CAE, IELTS, TOEFL).
In Detail
C1 for Every Situation
Click on a section for more details
Complex Negotiations
Negotiate strategically and with cultural sensitivity
Contract negotiations, pricing agreements, and diplomatic compromises in English. Train persuasion, strategic argumentation, and cultural sensitivity at C1 level.
Academic Discussions
Precise terminology, formal register
Deliver specialist talks, analyse scholarly arguments, and persuade in panel discussions. Academic English with precise terminology and formal registers.
Nuanced Argumentation
Linguistic finesse for executives
Express subtle differences in meaning, use irony and understatement deliberately, and diplomatically counter opposing arguments. The linguistic finesse for executives.
Spontaneous Communication
Respond quickly and eloquently
Networking at conferences, unprepared contributions in meetings, and small talk at the highest level. Respond quickly and eloquently in any situation.
Related
Related Offerings
English B2 Course
A solid foundation for progressing to C1 – independent language use at an upper-intermediate level.Negotiation English
Conduct negotiations in English – prices, contracts, compromises at C1 level.English for Executives
Tailored language training for managers and executives with international responsibilities.How much does it cost?
| Format | Duration | Price (approx.) | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Online — Private lessons | 90 minutes | €90–110 | 1:1, Zoom / Teams / Meet |
| Online — Corporate lessons | 90 minutes | €97.50–105 | Small groups, tailored curriculum |
| In-person | 90 minutes | €115 | On-site or our office in Berlin / Hanover |
Prices depend on format, frequency, and requirements. Language instruction is VAT-exempt (§4 Nr.21 UStG).
Who we work with
DHLToyotaMedia MarktContinentalDeutsche Pop
“Wir schulen seit 5 Jahren unsere Teams über Simmonds. Die branchenspezifischen Materialien und die Flexibilität der Trainer machen den Unterschied.”
“Nach einem dreimonatigen Intensivtraining konnte ich meine erste internationale Präsentation souverän auf Englisch halten.”
“Die kostenlosen Online-Lektionen haben mich überzeugt. Die Qualität des Einzelunterrichts hat meine Erwartungen übertroffen.”
Frequently asked questions
What does English C1 mean according to the CEFR?+−
C1 is the second-highest level of the Common European Framework of Reference (CEFR). At C1 level, you can express yourself fluently and spontaneously, understand complex texts, and communicate clearly and in a well-structured manner on demanding topics – both orally and in writing.
Who is an English C1 course suitable for?+−
The C1 course is aimed at professionals and executives who already have solid English skills (B2) and want to raise their language competence to a near-native level – for instance for international negotiations, academic contexts, or leadership roles.
How long does it take to progress from B2 to C1?+−
In our experience, learners with a solid B2 level need approximately 6–12 months of regular training (2 hours per week). With our AI avatars you can practise additionally every day, which significantly accelerates progress.
Does the course prepare for C1 certificate exams?+−
Yes, our C1 training prepares you specifically for recognised exams such as Cambridge Advanced (CAE), IELTS Band 7–8, or TOEFL iBT. We train all exam components: reading, listening, writing, and speaking.
What sets your C1 course apart from other providers?+−
Our blended learning approach combines live sessions with native-speaking trainers and daily practice potential with AI avatars. Instead of rigid curricula, we work with real scenarios from your professional life – negotiations, presentations, academic discussions.
Improve your English for free
Free online lessons twice a week, vocabulary trainer with 600 words, and a placement test – all without signing up.
Get in touch
Tell us briefly what you need English or German for — we'll suggest the best format for your goals and schedule.
We typically respond within one working day.
What to expect
- ✓ Confident in meetings
- ✓ Persuasive presentations
- ✓ Professional negotiations
- ✓ Texts that work