MEP Congratulates Shawlands Academy Students On European Language Award

The competition is part of European Day of Languages which takes place today (Tuesday 26th of September). The awards will be presented this afternoon at a ceremony in the Scottish Parliament by Sir Trevor MacDonald.

Commenting on the Litterhitter's success, Mr Smith said,

"This is a fantastic achievement for the students. They have been involved in an innovative project that has not only encouraged students to learn a new language but has encouraged them to use it in an everyday context - helping clean up their environment.

"I hope that the success of this project encourages more schools to adopt innovative ways of teaching languages and encourages students to keep up their languages and learn new ones.

"For some languages can be a daunting prospect but it can be hugely rewarding both in terms of personal achievement and for improving career prospects.

"It is vital for the future of Scotland that our young people have the ability to communicate with people from other countries. Our businesses and institutions are working more and more with partners across Europe and as more and more Scots work and travel on the continent learning a second, third or fourth language is becoming increasingly important."