CILT, the National Centre for Languages is setting a challenge to young people and schools across the UK – Who can make the most creative two-minute video clip showing why languages are important?

This question is at the heart of the Languages and Film Talent Awards (LAFTAs), a national competition inviting 13-21 year olds to make short films about the importance of languages.
The competition has support from high profile judges including double Olympic champion Sebastian Coe and Charlie and the Chocolate Factory star Freddie Highmore.

The LAFTAs first launched in 2008, when over 750 young people got the cameras rolling for the chance to win fantastic prizes including trips to Spain, France and Germany. Even more are expected to take part in this year's competition, which aims to encourage more young people to learn a language.

This year’s LAFTAs include some exciting developments such as the support of the London Organising Committee of the Olympic Games and Paralympic Games (LOCOG). A special London 2012 category invites entries linking languages to London 2012 and the Olympic and Paralympic Values. The category will be judged by LOCOG chair Seb Coe.

Other new twists include a World of Languages category – looking for the best clips involving lesser-taught languages - and regional heats run by Routes into Languages and CILT UK. (17/06/09)