Brand new language festival launches this month

Language education is set to take centre stage with the launch of Language Fest North West.

The region-wide festival launches with Transforming the Future of Language Teaching on Thursday, February 5, 2026 at The Etihad Stadium’s Chairman’s Club – a free professional development event for language teachers and school leaders. 

The event features keynote speakers including: 

· Bernardette Holmes MBE, Director at NCLE and passionate advocate for languages in education. 

Language Network Leads 

· Michelle Massey, Head of German at The Blue Coat CofE School, Cranmer Education Trust. 

· Catherine Woodward, Assistant Headteacher and Trust Leadership Community Lead in MFL, Cranmer Education Trust. 

· Tom Coltman, Trust Director of Languages, The Laurus Trust. 

· Sophia West, Head of French, Keswick School. 

“Language learning is central to both cultural understanding and future opportunity,” said a spokesperson for Language Fest North West.  

“This festival engages learners and teachers alike, offering both inspiration and practical pathways for language engagement.” 

Throughout February, local secondary schools can participate in a rich slate of competitions, workshops and events, including: 

· A classroom restaurant challenge rewarding real-world language use 

· Creative writing and songwriting competitions for learners 

· Webinars on career pathways and classroom innovation 

· Culture celebrations timed with International Mother Language Day 

The festival is supported by regional education partners, cultural organisations and national bodies, offering inclusive opportunities for students from beginner to advanced language learners. 

Language Fest North West invites educators, learners and communities across the North West to explore languages beyond the classroom.  

Full details and registration are available on the festival website: https://tinyurl.com/LangFestNW26