North East MFL Teachers make use of the latest AI from Sanako at the Technology in Language Teaching (TiLT) event at Newcastle University

For our our last Technology in Language Teaching (TiLT) event of the 2025 Summer Term we were kindly hosted by Newcastle University. The North East MFL teachers really turned out making the event over subscribed

Sanako UK worked closely with the Languages and interpreting team at Newcastle University to deliver our last Technology in Language Teaching (TiLT) event of the Summer 2025 Term.

We would like to extend our thanks to the team at Newcastle University for their fantastic help and support at the event

This latest TiLT event shared some exciting insights, which showcased a unique blend of "in-house" devices and a "Bring Your Own Device (BYOD)" approach. This combination worked perfectly, and it truly felt like a glimpse into the future of how language and interpreting lessons can be delivered.

During the event, our MFL and EAL teachers and tutors had the opportunity to experience the useful elements of AI specifically tailored for MFL & interpreting. They discovered firsthand how this kind of technology can significantly assist in their day-to-day teaching, leading to considerable savings in time and money, and ultimately improving educational outcomes for students.

Teachers and tutors got to experience the new features in Sanako Connect Online such as;

AI enhanced pronunciation testing
AI enhanced read aloud activity for students
Whole class simultaneous oral assessment activities
Live pairing and group work for speaking an listening
Live audio and video streaming plus much more

The day started with a fantastic keynote speech from MFL and School Improvement Consultant Wendy Adeniji entitled ‘Make the most of the opportunities provided by the new MFL GCSE’

Excellent curriculum design in MFL in KS3 and KS4: ensuring your students enjoy learning languages and are well prepared for GCSE.

Wendy's session on the new GCSE specifications was very well received. Wendy did an excellent job of running through the updated requirements and, importantly, demonstrated how our AI for MFL tools can be incredibly useful in addressing these aspects.

The teachers present were highly engaged, asking many relevant questions about the new specifications. It was clear they appreciated not only the direct information on the new requirements but also the valuable tips and tricks which Wendy, as a very experienced MFL teacher, was able to share.

After a short coffee break Dr. Yashyuan Jin (Michael), Lecturer in Translating and Interpreting, Newcastle University, delivered a live demonstration with volunteer students called; Sanako Connect - a teacher's companion to scaffold & solidify students’ interpreting skills

During this brilliant live session, delegates observed as several students were tasked with live interpreting and translation activities, truly showcasing the advantages that our online technology can offer. It was a fantastic opportunity to see firsthand how the platform facilitates these complex language tasks in a real-time environment. The demonstration highlighted the seamless integration and practical benefits of our online tools for both students and instructors alike.

Just before the complimentary lunch, our UK Director, Mr David Binns, delivered his "Modern Languages in the Working World" presentation. This talk is typically aimed at students to help them fully understand the benefits of language skills in any career path and has a hugely successful track record.

In his usual style, which is designed to engage students, he decided to present to the delegates as though they were Year 8, 9, or 10 students. I'm pleased to report that they responded very well to this approach, and it seemed to resonate with them effectively.

The talk approaches the value of a language skill from a different perspective, that of an employer choosing the best candidate for any position within a business setting.

And finally we went to the last, and always most popular session of the day, a hands on MFL lesson using the very latest AI technology from Sanako across various devices. This part of the day is always the most popular as it gives delegates a real "hands on" experience on how modern technology can resolve so many of the learning issues reported today. All based around the very successful Finnish Educational System

Juts a note, we must not overlook the tremendous contribution made by James Robertson of Newcastle University for making the day a great success, thank you James.

For further information on these exciting Technology in Language Teaching event please contact us