Students from the Fun French Language Club in Sunderland are proving kids in the UK don't have to lag behind the rest of Europe when it comes to language skills.

Dr Janie Wermter, from Ryhope, believes parents should be encouraging their children to learn another language, as they are more likely to become fluent if they start earlier.

"It's a natural process when children learn foreign languages when they are young because they have the ability to learn without getting them confused. It also means that they will achieve a more native grasp of both the grammar and pronunciation."

Dr Wermter is fluent in five languages and has lectured at the University of Sunderland in German and French for seven years.
She started the language club in October 2005.

"I have children in my classes who started learning French at the age of three and they are doing really well because they are learning with fun – through games, songs and crafts."

The Fun French Language Club, which meets at the Raich Carter Sports Centre, Hendon, has been such a big hit with families there are now plans to open another club at the Arts Centre in Washington.

Dr Wermter added: "People tend to think that the rest of the world is learning English so there is no need to learn another language but hopefully this can change."

Teresa Lumsdon from Grangetown, attends the club with Jack six, and Amy, four.

She said: "We were practising when we were on holiday in France and Jack was really good. He was teaching his little sister the French words for all the colours and animals, so I really do think he is benefiting from the class."

To find out more about the Fun French Club, visit www.funfrench.googlepages.com