YOUNG people from Clydebank High School engaged with local businesses at the University of Strathclyde.

S3 students joined 130 learners from schools across the west of Scotland to hear from a range of business leaders who view language skills as key to the growth of their company.

The Business Brunch demonstrated the relevance of language skills in a work context and aimed to encourage pupils to continue language studies at and beyond school.

A teacher at the event said: “Today’s event was a fantastic opportunity. It has given my pupils a deeper appreciation that language learning is not just about the words but that being able to speak a language can break down so many barriers in so many different ways, including our own perceptions of people and countries.”

One of the young people added: “I learned that language skills are an important aspect of day-to-day business and important to bigger companies. Language and cultural awareness is important in helping understand foreign business partners and in earning trust.”