What's on in March

Mondays 5th, 12th, 19th & 26th March Evening class still running at the Red Lion pub in Digby

30th & 31st March Language World 2007, Association for Language Learning

The future for HS Language Services

Enquiries for tuition have been flooding in since the New Year, and I have managed to accommodate most of the requests. We will be expanding this year, and the search for new language tutors continues, so HSLS should be in a position to offer a wider variety of languages in 2007.
I would also like to make the language classes available to more areas of the county, and I am very excited about the use of a pub to hold the courses in. This is really bringing languages into the community, working well for both parties and creating a more informal atmosphere. This is certainly an idea I will be pursuing for future courses.
Primary schools should now be putting their plans into place for languages, with a view to implementing this by 2010. HSLS certainly hopes to increase the number of schools it serves with our successful programme for languages in Primary.

What's on in Feburary

Monday 19th February Half -term, so no evening class this week.

Monday 26th February Evening class will change venue to the Red Lion pub, Digby

What's On in January

Monday 8th January French post-beginners course starts in Scopwick. Places still available.

Tuesday 9th January Look out for our display at Woodhall Spa Library.

Happy New Year!

Wishing all of my past, present and future students and clients all the very best for 2007!

Sponsorship of local events

Well, the Christmas Tree Festival in Scopwick was a success! I ended up decorating two trees, one for HS Language Services,and one for the Twinning Association. The church looked beautiful and the trees were all auctioned off successfully.
This is the second time that HSLS has sponsored an event in Scopwick, and I have also sponsored a local girl (see September's entry) for equipment.
I am more than happy to sponsor any local events and if there is something in your area, do not hesitate to get in touch. (Contact details)

Interim Report from Dearing Review

This report was published on 14th December. There is a recommendation that the earlier languages are introduced, the better. The Languages Ladder as a means of informal assessment at ks2 and ks3 is mentionned, as well as a review of the current GCSE format.
Whilst I am in complete agreement with the introduction of languages at primary level, I am not sure what measure can be taken to ensure a higher uptake at GCSE. Unfortunately the apathy shown towards language learning is just a reflection of the society we live in today. There are many hard-working, motivated students around, but numbers of those who do not wish to learn are on the increase. My experience in secondary comprehensives has shown me that teenagers are reluctant to take responsibility for their own learning, and expect to be spoonfed in lessons. There are relatively few who have a strong work ethic.
I'm not sure what the solution to this might be, but it certainly needs tackling.