On Wednesday 1st April, Alan White visited Holy Cross College in Bury to observe language teaching methods and to conduct a discussion about careers in translation and languages (having been employed in a variety of industries where languages were involved, such as foreign language call centres, teaching, translation and even a holiday rep, Alan is quite well placed to advise!)

The discussion was attended by about 50 16-18 year olds studying French, Spanish, German and Italian. Many of the students already knew that they wanted to work in the field of interpreting/translation and were keen to take up the offer of work experience in the Manchester office (a couple of CVs have been sent through already). Alan White commented: “It’s so encouraging to see so many enthusiastic linguists coming through. As a translation agency, we rely on a reliable network of translators, so we have a vested interest in encouraging youngsters to enter the industry.” Stephen Hudson of the college added:

“It was very useful for the students to meet a professional linguist and to think about working with languages – not only the tips and techniques, but also the opportunities which are available. I hope some of them will take up Alan’s offer of work experience, and we’ll be able to work with The Translation People again.”

In one of the lessons observed Alan helped some of the students with basic translation and explained some of the tips of the trade – mainly not necessarily having to have an English word for every foreign word that is encountered and having an English document that reads as if it was an original piece of writing rather than a translation.