European Day of Languages in London - Language learning connects beyond borders!

For the third year, the EU Delegation in London has marked the European Day of Languages with a series of events in London. First, at the end of September, through a vibrant Language Fair in Smith Square SW1 with nearly all Member States represented via their Cultural Institutes and Embassies - an event that and was attended by more than 400 students and members of the general public. 

This week the fair was followed up by a panel event, held at the very heart of the UK Parliament complex, to explore and celebrate the policy discussion surrounding the teaching of European languages in the UK.  
 

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Standing room only!

In Portcullis House, the event room was filled to capacity. An audience of 200 plus, including Members of the House of Commons and the House of Lords, academics, students and diplomats gathered - reflecting the active interest in the topic. The panel and reception was organised in partnership with the European Movement UK and with two cross-party groups (All-Party Parliamentary Group on Modern Languages and on Europe).

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The event was opened by Richard Baker MP, Darren Paffey MP, who is vice-chair of the cross party group on Modern Languages, Lord Kirkhope of Harrogate, co-chair of the cross party group on Europe. The Ambassador of France, Hélène Duchêne and the Ambassador of the EU, Pedro Serrano, also gave key note speeches. The panelists, Vicky Gough (British Council), Bernadette Holmes (National Consortium for Languages Education (NCLE) and Megan Bowler (Higher Education Policy Institute) stressed how learning languages creates bridges between societies and provides opportunities to those that need them most. They also explained the challenging situation of language learning in the UK. A recent report found that more A-level (exams that complete secondary education) students are now taking physical education than French, German and classical languages combined, according to a report that lays bare a “catastrophic decline” in formal language learning. But the it was reminded during the course of the evening that events such as this was all part of a wider process of arresting this decline - all hands on deck!

Looking ahead 
In this context, the May first ever EU–UK Summit marked a major step forward in the relationship, paving the way for closer cooperation. The EU and the UK notably agreed to work towards a Youth Experience Scheme and the UK’s association to Erasmus+. These initiatives will create new opportunities for young people in both the UK and the EU, helping them to learn, travel, and grow together.

Together, we are investing in our youth — and in the future of our societies and economies.