How to Balance Work and Study While Learning English

Between studying, learning a whole new language, and the necessity of work, creating a work/life/study balance can be a bit of a manage.

But there are ways to ensure you’re meeting all your obligations and enjoying a little downtime as well.

Here are five ways to balance work and study while learning English in Australia…

Set a schedule

Pens at the ready because a weekly schedule is about to become your new best friend.

At the start of each week, note down exactly what needs to be accomplished, when, including your work shifts, class timetable and any assessments that are due.

These are the non-negotiable pillars you need to plan around.

Once you’ve got the non-negotiable pillars in place, block out designated time for study - factoring in when you’re likely to be at your best in terms of retaining information.

Then add in other things you hope to accomplish as well, such as exercise or other activities.

Meanwhile, it’s a good idea to identify those weeks when your study load might increase due to exams and assignments. Mark these on the calendar in the knowledge you may need to reduce your hours of employment during that period.

Be consistent

Balancing work and education is all about creating a consistent routine, particularly when it comes to study.

While it might be tempting to put off revision or assignments until the last minute, consistently doing a little a day results in a lot less overwhelm and last-minute stress.

It’s also important to appreciate, learning English is accelerated by immersing yourself in an English-speaking culture.

By consistently seizing the opportunity to converse in English at every opportunity you improve your skills and comprehension more rapidly. This can then have an impact on your English study success.

Take breaks

Everyone has a threshold where it becomes hard to acquire and retain information. That’s why it’s important to take regular breaks to rest and re-set.

These breaks allow you to study more efficiently, resulting in greater productivity and information retention. In other words, regular breaks allow you to get more done in less time, and when the time you spend studying is productive, it creates more time for work and play.

Stay healthy

Study and work might be your priorities, but your health is equally important. While you might feel incredibly busy, do ensure you eat properly, get adequate sleep and enjoy regular exercise.

Good health provides the solid foundation you need to maintain a busy lifestyle. It also helps you focus and concentrate, ensuring the time you spend studying is productive.

Create a support network

Balancing work and study can occasionally feel overwhelming and it might seem particularly tough if you’re in a foreign country a long way from home.

Remember, there are support systems available. If you find you are struggling, reach out to your teacher or education provider.

It’s also a good idea to create a support network including friends and peers who may be in a similar situation.

And don’t forget to take care of yourself, with activities that help you unwind and relax.

Ready to start your study journey?

Ready to embark on a study adventure in Australia? You can learn more about the English courses that are available here, or start narrowing down your options using our handy search tool.