Have Questions About the Conversation Clubs?
Thinking about joining the Thinking in English Conversation Club but not sure if itโs right for you?
Donโt worry! Everyone has questions before their first session. This page explains how the clubs work, what to expect, and how they can help you become a more confident English speaker.
I’m here to make the decision easy and stress-free, and to answer all of your questions. Just keep reading!
Thinking in English Conversation Club FAQs
What is Thinking in English?
Thinking in English is an English-learning platform created by Tom Wilkinson. It includes a popular podcast, YouTube channel, blog, and a Patreon subscription platform with a global community of learners. The goal is simple: to help intermediate and advanced learners improve naturally through interesting English content.
What are Conversation Clubs?
Conversation Clubs are live, small-group speaking sessions where you practise English with motivated English learners and Thinking in English listeners from around the world. Trained English tutors are also present to assist. Each session focuses on interesting topics (often previous Thinking in English episode topics) and helps you build confidence, fluency, and natural communication skills.
About Speaking & English Level
Do I need to speak perfectly?
Not at all. Conversation Clubs are designed for learning, practising, and making mistakes. Nobody speaks perfectly. The goal is to improve your confidence, fluency, and comfort speaking English over time.
What English level is required?
Most participants are intermediate/upper-intermediate/advanced, but motivated intermediate learners also thrive. You donโt need to be fluent. You just need to be willing to speak, experiment, and improve.
What if Iโm shy or nervous?
Many learners feel nervous at first. The groups are small, friendly, and supportive, so youโll quickly feel comfortable. Youโre never forced to speak, but most learners are surprised at how quickly their confidence grows.
Scheduling & Attendance
When are the Conversation Clubs held?
Currently, there are six sessions per week:
- Tuesdays: 12:00, 18:00, 23:00 (UK time)
- Thursdays: 12:00, 18:00, 23:00 (UK time)
You can join as many sessions as you like each week. Sessions may expand in the future depending on demand.
How long is each session?
Each Conversation Club usually lasts 50โ60 minutes, depending on the group. Some learners join for the full session, while others join for part of it.
What if I canโt join every week?
No problem. The clubs are flexible. Join whenever your schedule allows. Some patrons attend every session, others once or twice a month.
Location & Platform
Where do the clubs take place?
All Conversation Clubs are online via Discord, so you can join from anywhere in the world. Youโll receive a private link to the Discord server once you become a patron.
Do I need a camera or microphone?
Microphone: Most members use headphones with a built in mic.
Camera: Optional but recommended. It helps conversation feel more natural. Many learners turn cameras off at first and gradually join with video once comfortable.
What technology do I need?
You only need:
- A computer, laptop, or smartphone
- A stable internet connection
- A free Discord account (link provided when you join)
No special software or complicated setup is required.
Costs & Membership
How much does it cost to join?
You need to be a patreon subscriber at one of the following tiers:
- English Learner: Full access to all Conversation Clubs & Bonus Episodes (ยฃ11.50 a month subscription)
- English Master: Includes a monthly chat with Tom Wilkinson (ยฃ40 a month subscription)
More pricing and sign-up details are available on my Patreon page.
Can English Listener patrons join?
No. English Listener Patreon members need to upgrade to one of the higher tiers to participate.
How do I sign up?
- Click the here
- Select your tier (Learner or Master)
- Complete the registration and payment
- Receive access to Discord and all club benefits
Learning & Progress
What topics do we discuss?
Topics are unique every week and often relate to the latest Thinking in English podcast episode. Youโll get discussion questions, vocabulary lists, and example answers in advance. (On Patreon and on my website)
Will I improve my English?
Yes. Regular participation helps you:
- Learn from real people in real-time
- Build confidence
- Improve fluency and pronunciation
- Expand vocabulary
- Practice grammar naturally in conversation
What support is provided during sessions?
The sessions are mainly focused on YOU practicing with other Thinking in English members. It is not a class with a teacher leading, but a practice session. However, trained tutors do move between the small groups to provide guidance and answer questions.
Community & Experience
Who will I meet?
Youโll join an international community of learners from Japan, Taiwan, Vietnam, Italy, Spain, Poland, Mexico, Colombia, Brazil, and more. Plus learners living or studying in the UK, USA, and Australia.
How many people join each week?
Typically 50โ70 learners participate weekly across all sessions, but you will be in a group of 3 or 4 people.
How to Become a Patron?
Becoming a patron is a simple process. To join our community and access exclusive content and benefits, follow these easy steps
- Click on the “Become a Patron” button on our Patreon page.
- Select the tier that aligns with your language learning goals.
- Complete the registration process, which includes setting up your payment method.
- Once you’re a patron, you’ll gain immediate access to the benefits of your chosen tier.
