Leeds Beckett University - City Campus,
Woodhouse Lane,
LS1 3HE
Launch of the Vocational Diploma in Interpreting
The Vocational Diploma in Interpreting is the second of four of the University's Continuous Professional Development courses for public service interpreters and is delivered as a distance learning qualification. The suite of courses is aimed at improving the professional performance of those who provide vital interpreting services to enable non or limited English speakers to access services offered by local authorities, hospitals and social services.
Graham Webb, Principal Lecturer in Languages at Leeds Metropolitan, explains: "The Vocational Diploma is an excellent and flexible way for interpreters to enhance their qualifications and professional skills. We suggest that the course is undertaken over three months as it consists of three modules which cover ethics and professional skills, face-to-face and telephone interpreting, and sight translation as well as language and cultural skills."
The diploma is delivered through the International School of Linguists' virtual learning environment, an innovative web-based platform designed specifically for linguists. Its distance learning format provides a route of maximum accessibility for potential students across the whole country, coupled with rigorous academic assessment and tutor support provided by Leeds Metropolitan University.
Designed to be non-language specific, the diploma allows flexibility for interpreters to gain a qualification demonstrating their understanding of the interpreting environment and interpreting methods, evidenced by a reflective journal of work-based learning. Students are given activities to complete in their spoken languages, but are assessed on their understanding and application of interpreting techniques and standards in English, the language of course delivery.
The Vocational Diploma in Interpreting will be followed over the coming year by the Professional Diploma in Public Service Interpreting and the Advanced Professional Diploma in Public Service Interpreting, providing a career progression route for interpreters who wish to enhance their skills and training.
Interested parties should email Marina Rabadan-Gomez on m.rabadan-gomez@leedsmet.ac.uk