Language lessons in Aberdeen

As you walk down the populated streets of Aberdeen, located in the North East of Scotland, you might catch some of its city residents speaking different languages. In most cases, if they’re not speaking in English, chances are they’re speaking the local Scotts dialect called Doric. But you may also run up with some of the foreign-born residents that speak languages like Polish, Chinese, Russian, Spanish or German. In fact, according to this report, Aberdeen has a higher proportion of residents that were born outside the UK than any other Scottish city, as these immigrant communities make up 24% of the total population. Like in the rest of the country, the biggest foreign groups come from Poland, Italy and France. 

Learning a language is always a good idea, but this is especially true if you live in a city like Aberdeen, which attracts so many foreigners. Being able to communicate with them in their own language will allow you to form much deeper connections that can lead to all sorts of new opportunities and experiences in the city. What’s more, understanding other cultures will make the world feel closer, safer and much more interesting. 

Where to study foreign languages in Aberdeen

Whatever language you’re interested in learning, one of the best places you can visit in the city is the Aberdeen Public Library. With many branches in the city, this library has something for every language learner. If you’re a French learner, maybe you’re interested in some of the French films available like Une Nouvelle Amie, a psychological drama that will keep you at the edge of your seat while also providing you with an excellent opportunity to immerse yourself in the language. On the other hand, if you’re learning Polish, you should check out A coal miner’s bride, the fascinating true story about Anetka Kaminska, a young Polish woman who had to leave her whole life behind and move to the United States in 1896.
If you’re interested in other languages, there’s a whole language section in the library that has many useful resources that including grammar books, music, films and beautiful novels that will inspire you to keep learning. If you want to know more, you can check the catalogue here.

Language exchange groups in Aberdeen

If you can communicate in Italian and want to find others to speak la bella lingua with, the Aberdeen Italian Circle holds meetings weekly. Although their study group is mainly for intermediate to advanced learners who can hold a full conversation, if you’re a beginner you can still attend many of the events they organize every month like open talks where they invite Italian figures to talk about art or lunches where they all meet to drink the best Italian wine and food. Although most of their meetings take place at the Rubislaw Church Centre, located at 1 Beaconsfield Place if you want to attend a particular event you can check the location on their website.

On the other hand, if you’re looking for an institution where you can boost your Chinese skills, The Confucius Institute of the University of Aberdeen holds many events that promote cultural exchanges between Chinese students and locals like open classes, exhibitions, lectures and of course, language exchanges. Most of these events take place at the University of Aberdeen and are open to learners of all levels. If you want to learn more about their events, you can check them out here. 

Cultural institutions and events in Aberdeen

Are you curious about Polish culture? Then you’re in luck, as every February you get the chance to attend the Polish Scottish Mini Festival. Organized by the Polish Association in Aberdeen, this festival's main aim is to strengthen the positive image of the Polish community in Aberdeen and Scotland by shining a light on the deep relationship these two cultures have. The programme includes live bands, performances and different workshops. One of the highlights of the festival is the Polish-Scottish Ceilidh, where in addition to being able to dance Scottish and Polish traditional dances, you’ll be able to taste delicious traditional dishes.

Those interested in the French language can’t miss the events organized by the Franco-Scottish Society. Their meetings include talks, film discussions, the best French music, wine tastings, and social events like soirées and French language exchanges. Most of their meetings take place at Mackie Library located at 17 23 Queens Road and are in French but if you’re not as fluent, don’t worry, you can still attend.

Language jobs in Aberdeen

As the commercial capital of northeastern Scotland, Aberdeen has many incredible job opportunities, but it’s also a competitive job market, so if you really want to stand out in job interviews around the city, you have to go the extra mile. Adding as many languages as you can to your resume is one of the best ways to increase your competitiveness and become more employable in any market.

Aberdeen is recognised internationally as a global leader in the oil and gas industry, so if you want to work for some of the top companies in the area like Fishermen Petroleum Company, Trac Oil and Gas Limited and Verus Petroleum, you should consider learning languages like Chinese, Russian, Norwegian, Portuguese, Spanish or Arabic, which will open many doors to some of the most the biggest companies in the industry.  

Get started now!!!

After reading this, you’re probably well aware of all the reasons why learning languages in Aberdeen is definitely a good idea. Whether you want to improve your rusty Italian skills or you’re thinking of studying Chinese to expand your business, the best choice is Listen & Learn. We offer flexible courses that are unique because they’re based on your particular interests, language goals and skill level. All you need to do is send us a quick enquiry and one of our team members will make sure you’re paired up with one of our excellent tutors.