A programme that trains hundreds of students in working cross-culturally in language based development has received Government approval.

The European Training Programme (ETP) received recognition for the high quality of its courses.

Specifically, the British Accreditation Council recognised ETP for "effective teaching" and "well planned sessions, delivered with knowledge and humour by competent and knowledgeable staff".

David Morgan, the Director of the European Training Programme, said, "This is excellent news because it means we can continue to have trainees of all nationalities present on ETP courses and maintain the cross-cultural mix of students, so vital for the areas we cover."

ETP attracts a large number of students working in minority languages who come to ETP for a short stay to brush up their skills.

Others come to ETP to see if working full-time in the field is for them. The Masters degree in Field Linguistics is validated by Middlesex University. It includes a 12-month placement with an overseas language project.