by John Evans

With A level entries for modern languages down almost 50% in the last decade and English pupils coming bottom of the European league table of language learners according to the first European Survey on Language Competences carried out in 2012, the future for modern languages in the UK does not look bright. What can you do to help change things?

This presentation will explain how translators and interpreters can work with teachers to boost the profile of languages and raise awareness of the variety of careers open to people with good language skills. I will provide participants with suggestions on how to get involved with schools and organisations working to promote languages in schools and I will look at a range of ideas for developing an enthusiasm for languages among school pupils, such as video, interactive exercises, content from the media and Internet, case studies, facts and figures, etc.  I will also inform participants about the resources on translating and interpreting that are available and suitable for use in schools.

This presentation is aimed at linguists who are interested in encouraging more young people to study languages and to consider a career in translating or interpreting. At the end of the presentation delegates will know who to contact to start working with schools and they will be armed with a range of tools to motivate and inspire young people to continue with their language studies and even follow in our footsteps to become translators or interpreters.