International Certification

In a multicultural Europe, which is characterized by a wide variety of languages and institutions; it is important to develop recognised qualifications in the language sector. The objective of the Common European Framework of Reference for Languages (CEFR), developed by the Council of Europe is to: provide a common base for the reciprocal recognition of qualifications among the citizens of the different countries of the EU, to have a standardised programme for the study of foreign languages, to indicate the career options in the programme of study, etc., as well as to promote mobility and facilitate communication between professionals within the modern language sector. A key element in the context of the CEFR is stated in the European Language Portfolio (ELP). The ELP is based on a clear evaluation system of personal progress and allows foreign language students to take note of their own cultural experiences and studies. The documents may be updated regularly and the language skills acquired may be described and annotated based on the Pan European criteria. It is therefore a sort of “passport” which may be particularly useful to someone who has changed schools, takes part in a vocational guidance interview or applies for a job. It also has a set of guidelines on how to optimise the study of foreign languages and on the related available resources.