Redditch manager goes back to class to promote languages - 29 January 2008
Pete Vaughan, business development manager of Redditch-based storage and logistics company, Oakland International Ltd, went back to the classroom recently to encourage pupils to broaden future career prospects by increasing their language skills.
Pete visited Arrow Vale Community High School in Redditch to deliver language-based presentations and activities to over eighty Year 9 students. The morning gave students an insight into the job roles and salaries available to those with languages.
Pictured: Pete Vaughan (front), Oakland’s business development manager and Chris Everall (back), RLN manager, with pupils from Arrow Vale Community High School.
The school, following the national trend, has seen a rapid decline in the number of students taking languages. Only 12 Year 10 students currently take GCSE French compared to 66 in the previous year, so Pete is hopeful that his input can turn things around.
This project is part of the Business Language Champions programme, co-ordinated by the RLN and designed to increase uptake of languages in schools.
The talks were well received and enjoyed by all, as Sarah Noble, head of languages, said:
“The sessions were extremely informative and it was useful for our students to see French as a skill for life and to appreciate that a second language is a desirable skill in the world of work”
Chris Everall, RLN manager, added:
“With so much bad news in the press about the decline of languages, we are delighted that the Business Language Champions initiative is bringing businesses and schools together to highlight how important language skills are.”
Pete was delighted with the response from students:
“Having the ability to speak more than one language is an immense asset. Currently Britain trails behind many other countries such as China who have already recognised the importance of language in securing international trade. Oakland is delighted to support the Business Language Champions initiative as it is a great way of getting the language message across that Britain needs to nurture language talent within our schools to increase students’ future employability within the international jobs market.”
Oakland International require staff with language skills to work with manufacturers and retailers worldwide. In 2007 they acted as Business Language Champion to St Augustine ’s School in Redditch , helping to double the number of students taking French GCSE.
Click here to find out more about the Business Language Champions programme.
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