Regional Language Network South West

Podcasts now available directly from RLN SW website

Listen to or download our free podcasts with interviews and business advice for over 25 countries and regions – no need to sign up.
The podcasts cover business etiquette, interviews, and some basic phrases to help you get by when doing business overseas.

Find out more about RLN podcasts

Competition prize for tourism businesses

Tourism businesses in the South West are being challenged to attract more overseas visitors for the chance to win a multi-lingual website design package worth £500. South West Tourism has teamed up with Kwintessential, a leading regional provider of cross cultural solutions, to launch this innovative competition.

International Trade Forum in Bristol

Broadcaster and journalist Peter Sissons is hosting a panel of experts on business in China, including Dr Peter Gold, Director of RLN SW, West of England hub, and Thorsten Fisher, Economic Advisor, RBS.

Peter Sissons

Free help and advice for business

Three organisations that can help you are:
UK Trade and Investment for companies that are already involved in trading overseas;
Business Link for free business advice and support online and through local advisors; and
Train to Gain for staff training and skills identification.

Find out more

Language strategy recommendations for the 2012 Olympic and Paralympic Games

A report published recently by RintoL recommends the language initiatives needed to ensure Britain is a generous host not only for the London 2012 Olympic and Paralympic Games, but other international events.
The report stresses the importance of volunteers and Higher Education, and includes links to websites with more information about the 2012 Games.

Read the key points of the report

In brief

Diploma in Languages
The Diploma in Languages is a new qualification for students aged 14 to 19. Businesses, schools and other stakeholders are given a final opportunity for feedback during various events around the UK.
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New national standards promote intercultural respect at work
The first ever National Occupational Standards for Intercultural Working for working with people from different countries or diverse cultures were launched in November. The new standards describe the skills, knowledge and understanding required by anyone wishing to work effectively in a multicultural environment.
Read more