Language students talk their way to success

Ten students were presented with Student Achievement Awards by their tutors and were invited to deliver, in English, their end-of-year presentations to the group.

The successful students have been studying Italian, Greek, French, Spanish and Portuguese at both Leeds Metropolitan's Headingley Campus, where a total of 24 languages are taught, and at Rossett Extended School in Harrogate, where 12 languages are also taught by Leeds Metropolitan staff.

Elizabeth Higgins, a 53-year-old student from Scarcroft near Wetherby, commented on her award: "I've been studying Italian in Harrogate for six years now as I've always wanted to go to Italy for its style and culture. It was my life's ambition and now I've done it. The course has been so worthwhile as it keeps the mind active as well as allowing you to learn about a new culture and meet like-minded people. It extends beyond the lesson and into your social life."

Vince Hayes, a 56-year-old IT Project Manager, began studying modern Greek at Leeds Metropolitan last year: "Thirty years ago I did my degree in Ancient Greek but I've always wanted to learn modern Greek as I'd like to live in Crete when I retire. It has been fabulous, having the ability to learn in a friendly, welcoming group with a very special tutor. I am definitely continuing my studies next year."

Leeds Metropolitan University offers one of the widest ranges of part-time language courses in the country, with approximately 2,500 students registered on a course this year, taught by a team of over 80 specialised academic members of staff, the majority of which are native speakers. Courses run both in the daytime and evenings and also include Arabic, Mandarin Chinese, Japanese and Russian.

Language courses at the University can lead to qualifications including Certificates of Higher Education, Diplomas and a BA (Hons) in Language Studies. Classes run at all levels from beginners to advanced and independent user level.