The project focused on providing language teachers with the knowledge and tools that are necessary to effectively implement a task-based syllabus within their own teaching contexts. This involved the design of a task-based syllabus, the design of a materials bank which supports the implementation of the task-based syllabus, and the creation of a teacher training programme which is adapted to the needs of those active in the tourism sector. With mentioned results we aimed to equip teachers and trainers with the skills needed to both successfully implement a task-based syllabus and convince other stakeholders of the importance and relevance of a task-based approach to English foreign language learning. Using this approach towards English foreign language learning, those active in tourism industry are better able to acquire the language and soft skills required by sector and or in the workplace of their selected vocation. The desired long-term outcome would be that they will then be able to achieve higher levels of employability, showcase their businesses and be more resilient to crisis situations since they will have a core set of foreign language and transversal competencies that make them more lucrative asset in the labour market.
Over four in five employers state English is by far the most important foreign language in industry (https://op.europa.eu/en/publication-detail/-/publication/6e68f7e0-dd4a-11e6-ad7c-01aa75ed71a1). However, one third of employers find it difficult to fill positions due to applicants’ insufficient foreign language skills. In fact, a Council Recommendation of 22nd May 2019 states national governments should support VET providers to better align language learning with the foreign language needs of occupations that they train students for. It’s not only language skills deemed crucial in the labour market, though. A European Commission report on ‘Promoting Adult Learning in the Workplace’ states that people entering the workplace should acquire a combination of transversal core skills, English foreign language skills and specific skills needed for a job. TBL 4 Tourism was proposed and implemented with a thought to address those challenges and develop result that would upskill and support VET teachers to prepare their learners to meet those demands.