How does the programme work?

Each year Scottish schools host over 200 Foreign Language Assistants from around 20 countries worldwide

Their role is to help students develop their language skills by delivering a range of activities in an engaging and interactive manner. Through this they also help develop students’ knowledge and understanding of the world and Scotland’s place in it. Foreign Language Assistants usually work with the class teacher and the whole class, or on their own with small groups of students.

In return, assistants have a unique opportunity to live and work in Scotland, gain an insight into the education system and develop their command of the English language.

What will I have to do?

Foreign Language Assistants appointed to Scotland work from 1 September – 31 May. The standard contract is 12 hours per week. Up to 6 extra hours may be worked by mutual agreement (paid additionally). Assistants may be shared between two schools. The allowance for 2009-10 is £1000 gross per month.

Why choose Scotland?

If you would like to experience teaching in the UK as well encountering dramatic landscapes, a warm Scottish welcome or even just a chance to spot the Loch Ness monster, then Scotland is the place for you!

How to apply

We manage the Foreign Language Assistants programme and facilitate the placement of students to a wide range of primary and secondary schools throughout Scotland. If you would like to apply to be an Arabic, Chinese, French, German, Italian, Japanese, Russian, Spanish, or Urdu assistant in the UK, you should apply to our partner organisation in your home country. You cannot apply to us directly.

Information for currently appointed Foreign Language Assistants

If you're looking for advice and guidance, new teaching materials or would just like to share and discuss your ideas with others, visit our online support website. Or for practical information download our 2009-10 edition of our Foreign Language Assistants booklet (Notes for schools, colleges and language assistants)

Information for employers

Employing a language assistant can assist greatly in helping to deliver the four capacities of the Curriculum for Excellence. Assistants can also make a very valuable contribution beyond language departments in cross-curricular and interdisciplinary activities.

'Working with a representative of another language and
culture contributes to awareness of the outside
world and helps value differences.'

(Secondary teacher, South Lanarkshire)

Find out more about what is involved in employing a Foreign Language Assistant, and full details on how to apply.

For further advice and guidance download the 2009-10 edition of our Foreign Language Assistants booklet (Notes for schools, colleges and language assistants)

For more information, visit the main Language Assistants website. You can also contact the team on +44 (0) 131 524 5717 or email internationaleducationscotland@britishcouncil.org