Language learningThere's no better place to be than London if you want to learn languages - with thousands of courses available and over 300 languages spoken on our streets. Find out more about the languages spoken in our communities or read on to discover the different ways you can learn languages. Studying at university and college
Many study programmes in adult education are designed with the general public in mind - studying for holidays, for socialising or just for fun. These can also meet the needs of people using languages at work, if you don't think you need the formal qualification. Course timing is usually more flexible, offering weekend and evening classes too. Don't forget that there are lots of language training companies out there offering group and individual programmes that can be tailor-made for you. This factsheet gives advice on combining languages with other degree options at university. You can get more advice on further education, higher education and adult education on the Languages Work website. We can also help you in finding a course. Other ways of learningEveryone has their own way of picking up languages - and that doesn't necessarily mean enrolling in a class. Audio, video and printed materials can help you to pick up the language in your own time, even when you're on the move. With language learning podcasts now available, it couldn't be easier. You could try buddying with friends, neighbours and colleagues who speak languages - or even get in touch with international students at your local college. If there's no-one close to home, online technology has made it easier than ever to get in contact with people to practise your language. Try websites like Linguanet Europa and Babbel which will help you to assess your ability and make friends at home and abroad who speak languages. Top Language Community can help you meet like-minded linguists in London - and find a job, a flat to share or even a date! Volunteering and work placements as well as time spent abroad speaking the language and absorbing the culture can be great ways to develop your knowledge. If you're still stuck, the Languages Work website can give you more ideas on informal ways of learning languages. You might also like to try this Channel 4 website to see how languages and your lifestyle can go hand in hand. Training in employment
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If you're looking to get a qualification on your CV - many employers like to see this - you may prefer to study formally in further or higher education. Find out whether the course is designed for business generally or even the industry you want to work in.
Your employer may be able to fund language training - generally if there is a business need for it, but sometimes simply as a development opportunity for staff. You can find out more about what this involves by visiting our