This project takes language classes to those traditionally unlikely to sign up for a course. Learners include those recovering from addiction and mental illness, young nursery nurses, remand prisoners, young nursery nurses, 16–18-year-olds on Entry to Employment catering courses, parents in drop-in centres and adults with learning difficulties.

The project, which also includes French, Italian and Dutch, aims to provide new opportunities through accessible, short-term projects based in outreach venues in the community. ‘Allegro’ uses a wide range of approaches to suit the diverse groups of learners and their specific needs.

Language skills are not the only benefit for the learners, the experience has increased their interest in the wider world and improved their selfconfidence. The project has also convinced organisations beyond the languages community of the importance of language skills.

Allegro also receives the Routledge Adult Education Special Prize.