If anyone is deliberating over whether it’s worth going to The Language Show at Kensington Olympia this weekend, I would strongly urge them to set aside a little time over the weekend to pop in.

Just take a look at the website to see the array of distinguished exhibitors, recruiters and speakers who will be appearing over the three days. Whether you have a professional interest in languages or you simply want to indulge in a little wine-tasting, the event offers an unrivalled opportunity to savour all that learning and speaking a foreign language can offer you.

The show has managed to avoid falling into the trap of spreading itself too thin, far from it: the talks and events this year look to be a well-judged mixture of fun insight sessions and in-depth guidance for those who are seeking to, or who already are, making a living out of their language skills.

New this year, there is also a ‘TEFL village’ focussing on aspects of EFL teaching methodology (not to mention recruitment). I was particularly pleased to see this (not least because I’m in the middle of a CELTA course!), since it reflects how the foreign language industry very often overlaps with the EFL industry.

I’ve also made a note of a talk by the CIOL on career development for translators…..a topic very close to the hearts of all of us language professionals. What’s more, it’s FREE! Get your tickets on The Language Show website. After all, what other industry could run a 3 day, free of charge, ’show’ which encompasses such a wide range of fascinating aspects?