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!

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 European Language Label 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”.

I’m Interested! What Now?

If you think the European Language Label is for you, but you want to be certain before you proceed, check that your initiative aligns with the three Award Principles: 

• The Award’s thematic priorities 

• Comprehensive and creative approach 

• Impact and dissemination. 

In Ireland, the 2022 Call for the European Language Label has four thematic priorities: 

• Enhance language learning through Information and Communication Technology (ICT) and digital media 

• Language learning and promotion of equity, social cohesion and active citizenship 

• Professional development of language teachers 

• supporting the teaching and learning of Irish. 

If you are confident your initiative complements the Award Principles, then simply follow the next three steps! 

Meet the Irish 2022 European Language Label Winners:

• 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?