Dear colleagues and friends

This is the second newsletter from the Healthcare English Language Programme (HELP) consortium. We have made significant progress.

This Erasmus+ project aims to create a free, printed and web-based English language training programme specially designed for healthcare students and professionals at the B1/B2 levels of CEFR which  will be available for formal education and self-study. Apart from the professional and language content, the programme also features an innovative element including intercultural competence which students and professionals require due to the increasing mobility of healthcare staff. The use and development of platforms and apps for foreign language skills, allow for continuous learning outside formal arrangements. Furthermore the outcome from this project provide a valuable contribution to higher education (HE) systems development . The modern approach of learning and teaching and the promotion of independent learning are important features of the programme.

First learning modules for preview

Initially the project carried out a needs analysis (can be found here: a digest and the full report) which was used to inform the design of the learning materials. The report was for internal use but has been made available as the partners thought that the results would benefit syllabus planning and implementation for English Language healthcare students. We have obtained official permission to use the ICNP® terminology by the International Council of Nursing to help ensure the quality and language is relevant. At present, our team has developed most of the 20 modules which focus on different areas of healthcare including intercultural competences. We are delighted to offer you the first preview of the pages here, this layout is how the modules will appear in the printed version.

On-line platform under construction

The on-line learning platform will mirror the modules in a digital format, featuring audio and video materials will be developed in the coming months by Tecnalia, our Spanish partner. The demo access will be available soon and we will be eager to get your feedback to ensure platform meets your needs.  An internal pre-piloting phase has currently started. The real piloting begins in September 2016 and we invite you to test and to contribute to the products which will lead to higher standards in medical English at HE. Our efforts will culminate in June 2017 in Olomouc, Czech Republic, where the results will be launched in full strength.

Come and check our re-designed website http://help-theproject.eu which offers more detailed and up-to-date information on the project.

Thank you for your interest and support

The HELP team