September 19, 2014, by Giselle Kennedy

Why should you study a language as part of the Nottingham Advantage Award?

If you’re unable to study a language as part of your main university degree, taking an evening language class as part of the Nottingham Advantage Award could be just what you need!

You can gain 10 Award credits for your participation in a 20-week long class and benefit from the following advantages:

• Recognition for taking part in an extracurricular activity
• An excellent opportunity to learn a language at The University of Nottingham, where language classes are relatively inexpensive
• A chance to develop valuable communication skills in a relaxed environment
• Improved interpersonal skills, as a result of mixing with students from different backgrounds (from other departments and from the local community)
• Enhanced employability prospects, which is one of the main aims of the Nottingham Advantage Award

When it comes to workplace, language skills are more valuable than you might think. A recent education and skills survey by the CBI (Confederation of British Industry) stressed how important languages are for business.

• Nearly three quarters (72%) of businesses say they value foreign language skills among their employees, particularly in helping build relationships with clients, customers and suppliers (39%)
• One in five firms (21%) are concerned that their weak foreign language proficiency is losing them business, or is uncertain whether this is happening
• Among firms concerned about shortfalls in language proficiency, half (52%) are looking to recruit staff with the appropriate skills

If you are looking to learn a new skill or develop a language you already know, you can apply for courses by visiting the Language Centre. To receive credits from Nottingham Advantage Award, please follow the step by step guide to Language Classes on Workspace. The application deadline for language classes is Monday 29 September 2014. 

Written by Maryse Wright,  Module Convenor of Language Classes

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