Working together to promote language learning

July 2006

Businesses and schools from across Devon and Cornwall met at an awards ceremony in Exeter in July to celebrate a second successful year of Business Language Champion activity.

 

West Country students have been able to visit local companies and listen to talks on the value of studying foreign languages. Devon companies FlyBe, the Met Office, Reuters and Centrax have all taken part in the scheme promoted by RLN South West. In Cornwall, Paradise Park has worked with Hayle School to produce language CDs about their visitor attraction.

Steve Parrott, Director of Personnel at FlyBe said: “We know that a staggering one in five South West companies who trade overseas say they have lost business because of language and cultural barriers. I want students to know the immediate financial benefits to people with language skills at both the conversational and fluent levels of proficiency. Not only are there opportunities for people locally, but good language skills can open the door to travel and working overseas.”

Gwyneth Leonard, RLN South West manager added: “I am hugely grateful to these very busy people who are willing to take time to work with schools and speak to students. It makes a real difference when business people give such positive messages about the value of language learning.”

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