European Language Label

Why Should I Get Involved with the European Language Label?

Firstly, it’s important to note that the European Language Label is not limited to European languages: teaching or learning of any language can be considered, including Sign Language!

If you’re involved in or know of a creative, innovative and inspirational initiative that is focused on language learning or language promotion, and you want to see it recognised on a larger scale, then apply for a European Language Label Award!

What Exactly is the European Language Label?

The European Language Label (ELL) Award is coordinated by the European Commission, but again, it’s important to remember that the European Language Label is not limited to European languages; teaching or learning of any language can be considered.

The ELL, which has been managed by Léargas in Ireland since 1999, highlights and rewards innovative initiatives in language teaching, learning and promotion, and brings these initiatives to the attention of the public along with professionals in the languages field.

The ELL is open to all fields of education and training. We encourage both accredited and non-accredited initiatives to apply. Whether it’s in a football team, university, community group, school, youth group, company, or choir – we want to hear how your stories of language learning being brought to life!

How Will the European Language Label Benefit Me?

If you’re passionate about language learning and want to celebrate the diverse pathways to language acquisition, then the ELL is for you. Receiving the award showcases your own innovative initiative and is a great reward for all those involved in it. You will also be exposed to a world of inspirational projects which will inspire you on your own linguistic journey.

More than one hundred fifty educational, training and community groups and language teachers, learners and ambassadors have received the ELL award already. Previous winners have said that “receiving external validation from such a respected organisation was a huge boost for the organisation and our team”.

Applying to the European Language Label 

Erasmus+ projects can apply in the end of their project through the Final Report. 

In Ireland the European Language Label is awarded bi-annually to projects that support at least one of the European themes identified for that year. European themes may be complemented with national themes. 

Please check Themes here as they change from year to year. 

The next Call for the European Language Label Award in Ireland will be open in autumn 2025. 

The Irish 2022 European Language Label Winners were:

• Trinity College Dublin with the project  ABAIR – An Scéalaí
• Milford GAA with the project Ag Treabhadh an Ghoirt ar son na Gaeilge
• Meánscoil San Nioclás with the two projects Ar dTuras Inbhuanaithe and Eágóir Shóisialta ar fud an domhain
• Professional Development Service for Teachers (PDST) with the project Gaeilge Bheo
• Technological University Dublin with the project Languages Pathways
• Junior Cycle for Teachers with the project Let’s reflect and C
• The Trailblazery with the project Scoil Scairte.

What Next?