Yorkshire and the Humber

Up to 100 Yr10 pupils from schools in the North Yorkshire region recently took part in a lively languages event at Selby College. Eurofest – a simulated trade fair, organised by North Yorkshire Educational Business Partnership and Selby College and supported by the University of Hull through Routes into Languages, Yorkshire and The Humber and The Regional Language Network for Yorkshire and The Humber, was an opportunity for the children participating to experience how important languages are in the real world of business. The children, from secondary feeder schools linked to Selby College, designed stalls selling products of their choice, varying from clothing, to food to tourist information, competing with children from the different schools for a first prize trophy.

The stalls were manned by 3 - 4 pupils, and each participant had to conduct their business in either French or German. Language student ambassadors from the University of Hull, together with Business Language Champions supporting the event through the Regional Language Network engaged with the children trying to sell their products, and asked them questions using the appropriate target language.

Participants were judged on their efforts with design of product and stall, use of language and communications skills being some of the key areas assessed.

Local dignitaries also attended the event and saw at first hand the extent of the work carried out by the pupils. It was a huge success and it is intended that the trade fair will take place annually.