PUPILS at Kingsdown School put their French and German skills to the test at a business simulation day run by Intel.

The Pipers Way-based company set the stage providing a real-life high-tech business environment.

The event was designed so that year ten students learning French and German could practice.

Trainee language teachers from Bath University also joined in the fun and were given the chance to get an overview of Intel's education programmes.

Students were encouraged to invent a company, a product, and then invite a prospective customer to visit in order make a sales presentation, all in the language they are studying.

They were also given the opportunity to see the latest Intel technology in action and learn about the importance of languages in global business.

Event co-ordinator Kathryn Whelan said: "We're still working our way through all the student feedback but the general consensus is that the pupils had a great time.

"Many of them have never spoken a foreign language outside of the classroom let alone met a French or German person so as far as they were concerned it was a real opportunity.

"It was great to hear them chattering away in French."

Intel is hoping to open up the initiative to other schools in the area. Company staff are also hoping to host Spanish and Polish language days.

Kathryn said: "Intel is a real multi-national company so we have people of all cultures and backgrounds speaking a variety of languages.

"It's great to be able to take that into schools for the benefit of students and student teachers."