The European Day of Languages takes place on the 26th September every year. Across the continent, events take place celebrating the languages of Europe and encouraging people to improve their language skills.

Established in 2001 by the Council of Europe, the aims of the European Day of Language are

• to encourage people of all ages to start to learn another language
• to take part in events to celebrate diversity and language learning
• to promote communication between the peoples of Europe by breaking down barriers of understanding about each others’ languages and cultures

The day celebrates our differences and similarities, and demonstrates the use of more than one language to be part of everyday European life. It is an annual reminder of our need to improve linguistic capability. In the UK, participation is encouraged by, and organised through, the Centre for Information on Language Teaching (CILT). They have a list of all the events and resources, as part of the European Day of Languages website.

Languages at the OU
The practical aims of the European Day for Languages are a good match to ours at The Open University. The Department of Languages, within the Faculty of Education and Language Studies (FELS), offers courses in French, German and Spanish by supported distance learning. The courses cover everyone from absolute beginners to higher level 3 students, offering a possible four years of study in each language.

(Beginner's Italian will be available from November 2007.)

To get a taste of studying with the Open University, explore the OU Course Tasters.

Courses can be counted towards a Certificate or the more advanced Diploma in a particular language, or added to other courses and counted towards a degree in Modern Languages or other related subjects. Every student has a personal tutor, who gives individual feedback on assignments, and provides support and advice throughout the course.

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