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17 June 2025
MANILA, Philippines — De La Salle-College of Saint Benilde (Benilde) will integrate Aptis testing into its regular assessment framework for the coming school year 2025-2026 after a successful pilot with 30 students in the Senior High School (SHS) level.
Aptis is a standardised English language assessment developed by the British Council, which provides students with a comprehensive evaluation of their reading, writing, speaking, and listening skills. The test is mapped to the Common European of Framework of Reference allowing the teachers to better understand the English language proficiency of their students. Through Aptis, the British Council in the Philippines continues to work closely with the education sector to provide tailored assessment solutions that meet each institution’s unique needs.
“The British Council is working with education institutions like Benilde to align with global standards in communication skills, especially in English, and assessment is the first step in this process. Knowing where the students and teachers are in the CEFR scale will inform programmes that will develop their skills to meet the target level set by the institution,” said Mike Cabigon, Business Development Manager for British Council in the Philippines.
Aptis provided valuable insights into Benilde SHS’ English education and testing, and enabled teachers to create data-driven solutions to identified challenges.
“This partnership with the British Council exemplifies our pursuit of excellence through innovation and global engagement. It ensures that our students are not only equipped with strong language skills, but are also empowered to communicate across cultures, disciplines, and borders,” said Mr. Michael Lewis Ong, principal of the Senior High School of DLS-CSB.
DLS-CSB’s collaboration with the British Council reflects a shared vision of academic integrity, innovation, and global competence. “English proficiency is more than just a skill—it’s a passport to broader academic and professional opportunities,” said Mr. Teddy Dulce, Language Coordinator of Senior High School. “Aptis helps our students become more self-aware and better prepared for the linguistic demands of higher education and the workforce.”
After identifying a need to strengthen oral communication, Benilde’s English department introduced interactive speaking modules such as debates, real-world simulations, and peer-led presentations. The teachers also redesigned writing workshops to emphasize clarity, coherence, and organization, further demonstrating Benilde’s data-driven and responsive approach to teaching. The school is also exploring future initiatives with the British Council, including teacher training, language immersion programs, and student seminars.
“Benilde’s move to integrate Aptis into its regular assessment framework is a concrete example of how institutions can lead in advancing English proficiency. The British Council is happy to support education institutions in this advocacy. Through strategic partnerships and targeted programs, we aim to address the challenges and gaps identified in English education and create lasting impact,” said Lotus Postrado, Country Director for British Council in the Philippines.
For more information on Benilde Senior High School, contact us at (63) 2 8230 5100 local 1801 or admissions@benilde.edu.ph. You may also visit our website at www.benilde.edu.ph.
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