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	<title>Communication &#8211; The Language Network</title>
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	<title>Communication &#8211; The Language Network</title>
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		<title>Our Language Network &#8211; New Momentum</title>
		<link>https://thelanguagenetwork.online/new-momentum/</link>
					<comments>https://thelanguagenetwork.online/new-momentum/#respond</comments>
		
		<dc:creator><![CDATA[Ian BAILEY]]></dc:creator>
		<pubDate>Wed, 08 Oct 2025 14:25:12 +0000</pubDate>
				<category><![CDATA[Admin & Legal]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Communication]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Meetings]]></category>
		<guid isPermaLink="false">https://thelanguagenetwork.online/?p=2653</guid>

					<description><![CDATA[Prologue. When Claire Oldmeadow, the founder, mentor, and almost single-handed manager of The Language Network passed away on November 16th, 2023, the association was dealt a heavy blow, and members were left wondering about its future.However, if one principle preoccupation reigned in that sad and troubling period, it was that The Language Network should live on, and continue to be active, in honour and memory of Claire’s unique vision, and her untiring work on behalf of all of us members. That was nearly two years ago, and today the impetus remains. The grassroots activities – principally the online meetings that became channelled into the “Watchdogs” group, then in addition the Qualiopi Mutual Support group – have continued to this day, with monthly meetings attracting a regular group of active members throughout this period. Behind the scenes, Mark Bayhurst continued in his role of President, working hand-in-hand with Greg Williams and with Claire’s husband, Olivier, who has been a constant source of support and mentorship, through his valuable insights into the administrative and financial structure of the Language Network. That structure was, to say the least, highly complex. Claire’s enthusiasm for helping to improve the lot of the independent language trainers she was supporting, combined with her thirst for new projects, meant that over a couple of decades, The Language Network had spawned many activities, including several ongoing language training courses, the BEST certification (in conjunction with the Franco-British Chamber of Commerce), as well as the in-person and online activities dedicated to independent language trainers. At that time, The Language Network, or “TLN” as it was commonly known, was subdivided into two entities: The TLNS (‘S’ for ‘Services’) included the BEST certification and most (but not all) of the for-profit training courses. The TLNE (‘E’ for… anyone know? Maybe ‘Everything Else’!) also included some for-profit training courses, but principally covered the direct support and collaboration activities with the independent language trainers themselves. To help run this complex organisation, Claire hired the help of a salaried employee, Samantha Watson, and also hired some part-time help from Lucy Davis. In addition to these two branches of The Language Network, Claire came up with a new initiative in response to the increasingly severe administrative demands of the French government on training organisations. Her idea sowed the seeds of &#8216;Training People&#8217;: a separate organisation in the form of a company driving a professional language training offer, with the aim of providing work opportunities for Language Network members within a framework seeking to mutualise the ever-increasing burden of administrative tasks. Claire also had new projects on the communications front, and in her last summer, she sought to materialise her will to see the online ‘Blog’ of The Language Network matured into a full-on website, albeit simple and straightforward, that would be a showcase for the activities of The Language Network, but also a tool to foster communications between its members.For this project, she asked Ian Bailey to propose a website development within a limited budget, and the result is where you are reading this article today. Re-organisation. This is the legacy that Mark, our President, was bestowed and, despite the complexity of the mission, he was determined to help revitalise The Language Network. That has been an ongoing, behind-the-scenes task of rather ungratifying administrative procedures, and Greg Williams came forward to help by taking on the helm of the BEST certification test, to satisfy the ongoing demand, while at the same time coordinating with Olivier, on behalf of both branches of The Language Network: ‘TLNS’ and ‘TLNE’. It became clear that these two entities needed to be rationalised, with the ‘TLNS’ becoming responsible for all the for-profit activities, such as the BEST certification tests and the remaining training courses, leaving the ‘TLNE’ as the Language Network, a not-for-profit association providing opportunities for independent trainers to come together – on- and off-line – to share ideas, news, and views. So it was that in the summer of this year, Mark needed to convene an official meeting to ratify this position and rapidly appoint a couple of members to help him in the administrative tasks behind the running of these entities. Greg and Ian were obvious choices in the current context, and the meeting was held on the 24th June, 2025, online.As a result, Mark continues as President, while Greg took on the tasks of Treasurer, aided and abetted by Olivier, who continues to support us, not only as a paid-up member of the Language Network, but particularly in his precious mentorship for all things administrative.Ian agreed to take on the role of ‘General Secretary’, to assist the two principal officers: President and Treasurer, compulsory for any “Association loi 1901”. During this meeting, it was also required to ratify the statutes of the Association, which were reviewed and updated to reflect current realities: Removal of exam-related passages (now the domain of the BEST organisation) Opening membership beyond English language teachers to all independent language professionals including teachers of other languages, language coaches, and administrators. Simplifying member categories and membership expiration rules. Clarifying governance structures to the minimal required roles (President and Treasurer), with one-year terms for elected officers. This official restructuration ensures that Claire’s legacy continues with three separate, but interdependent, and mutually-supporting organisations: the Language Network: a not-for-profit association providing online and in-person opportunities for independent trainers of languages, language coaches, and other independent language professionals to share ideas, news, and views, as well as opportunities for personal and professional development. the BEST organisation: an association governing and conducting the BEST certification tests, in conjunction with the Franco-British Chamber of Commerce, and still currently overseeing the remaining language training courses under the aegis of the ‘TLNS’. This association clearly needs to maintain its profit-based activity. Training People: from the outset, an independent company (SAS), born out of Claire’s original initiative, and offering opportunities for Language Network members to undertake professional language training missions. The Way Forward. 1.    Our first “Big Meeting” This brings us right up to the]]></description>
		
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		<title>Common Non-Conformities Identified in Training Organizations and How to Ensure Compliance</title>
		<link>https://thelanguagenetwork.online/common-non-conformities-identified-in-training-organizations-and-how-to-ensure-compliance/</link>
					<comments>https://thelanguagenetwork.online/common-non-conformities-identified-in-training-organizations-and-how-to-ensure-compliance/#comments</comments>
		
		<dc:creator><![CDATA[Ian BAILEY]]></dc:creator>
		<pubDate>Wed, 19 Feb 2025 08:29:39 +0000</pubDate>
				<category><![CDATA[Accounting & Invoicing]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Admin & Legal]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Communication]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Training]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[VAT]]></category>
		<guid isPermaLink="false">https://thelanguagenetwork.online/?p=1144</guid>

					<description><![CDATA[Audits of training organisations are carried out on the basis of documents or on site, by 145 agents spread across the 18 regional audit services (SRC /DREETS). Non-compliance may lead to sanctions imposed by the regional prefect or the minister, based on reports and observations.Below are the most common non-conformities identified in the latest report, along with solutions to ensure compliance. 1. Non-compliant advertising (21%) Issue:Training organizations must adhere to strict rules regarding communication and advertising. This includes:• Avoiding misleading claims about qualifications, certifications, or accreditations.• Including required legal information (e.g., registration number, Qualiopi certification if applicable).• Avoiding misleading promises (e.g., guaranteeing full financial support when conditions apply). How to ensure compliance:• Check that your communication materials (website, brochures, social media) include your registration number (N.D.A.: Numéro de Déclaration d’Activité) and relevant certifications.• Whenever you quote your N.D.A. in any communication, make sure that it includes the indication: “Cet enregistrement ne vaut pas agrément de l’État” (This registration does not imply State approval).• Be precise and factual when describing your training programs.• Add a disclaimer stating that financial support from funding bodies (OPCO, Pôle emploi) is subject to eligibility criteria. 2. Lack of separate accounting (18%) Issue:Training organizations must keep their financial records separate from other business activities. How to ensure compliance:• Open a dedicated bank account for your training activity.• Use accounting software that allows you to track income and expenses separately for each activity.• Ensure that invoices and quotes for training services specify the legal framework for VAT exemption.For example, if you are certified (by the DREETS, or previously DIRECCTE) exempt from VAT for your professional training activities, then all invoices for these VAT-exempt activities should include the following statement: “exonérée de TVA — Art. 261.4.4 a du CGI.”If the invoice is for an activity other than for your VAT-exempt activity (for example, for translation work), and if this ‘extra’ activity does not exceed the threshold in turnover for application of VAT, then your invoices for this activity should include the following statement: “TVA non applicable selon l&#8217;article 293B du CGI.” 3. Failure to deliver planned training actions (17%) Issue:Not delivering a planned training session or failing to adhere to its content is a major cause of non-compliance. How to ensure compliance:• Create a detailed syllabus and schedule for each training program.• Maintain attendance sheets signed by participants.• Archive training materials and certificates of completion.• If a session is cancelled, promptly notify participants and provide alternative solutions (rescheduling, refunds, etc.) 4. Absence or non-compliance of internal regulations (13%) Issue:The ‘règlement intérieur’, or ‘internal regulations’, are mandatory for training programs exceeding 500 hours per year. How to ensure compliance:• Draft internal regulations that outline:• General operating conditions.• Rights and responsibilities of trainees.• Safety and disciplinary rules.• Ensure trainees sign the regulations before starting the training. 5. Irregularities in the nature of services provided (5%) Issue:Training services must align with the legally defined categories (e.g., vocational training, skills assessments, validation of prior experience, apprenticeships). How to ensure compliance:• Verify that your programs fit within the legal framework for training services.• If offering coaching, ensure it is integrated into a structured training program with clear learning objectives. 6. Insufficient information for trainees (5%) Issue:Trainees must receive clear and complete information about the training program, including objectives, content, and conditions. How to ensure compliance:• Provide a detailed syllabus before enrolment.• Clearly state prerequisites and learning objectives.• Supply a welcome booklet outlining the training process. 7. Non-compliance with individual training contracts (4%) Issue:Any training commitment must be formalized through a contract or agreement. How to ensure compliance:Always issue a training contract specifying:• The nature and duration of the training.• Cost and funding arrangements.• Responsibilities of both trainer and trainee. How to Conduct a Compliance Review 1. Review your administrative documents• Ensure your registration number is valid.• Verify the existence and compliance of your internal regulations.• Update contract and agreement templates. 2. Check your accounting obligations• Maintain separate financial records for training activities.• Justify VAT exemption where applicable. 3. Assess your communication practices• Ensure your advertising complies with legal requirements.• Provide transparent information on training courses. 4. Evaluate your training procedures• Ensure each training program has a structured syllabus.• Keep records of attendance, training materials, and completion certificates. 5. Ensure traceability of your actions• Retain essential documents (contracts, agreements, proof of attendance, etc.) Developing Your Compliance Roadmap What&#8217;s at stake? Ensuring compliance with the regulatory framework governing training organizations in France is crucial to avoid significant legal and financial penalties. Below is an overview of potential sanctions associated with each of the previously discussed non-conformities: 1. Non-compliant Advertising Potential Sanctions: Financial Penalties: A fine of up to €4,500. Criminal Penalties: Up to one year of imprisonment. Operational Restrictions: Possible temporary or permanent prohibition from managing a training organization. Legal References: Articles L.6355-16, L.6355-17, and L.6355-23 of the French Labour Code. 2. Absence of Separate Accounting Potential Sanctions: Financial Penalties: A fine of up to €4,500. Operational Restrictions: Potential temporary or permanent ban from directing a training organization. Legal References: Articles L.6355-10 to L.6355-14 of the French Labour Code. 3. Failure to Execute Planned Training Actions Potential Sanctions: Financial Repercussions: Obligation to reimburse unduly received funds for services not rendered. Operational Restrictions: Possible annulment of the activity declaration, leading to a prohibition from offering training services. Legal References: Articles L.6354-1 and L.6351-4 of the French Labour Code. 4. Absence or Non-compliance of Internal Regulations Potential Sanctions: Financial Penalties: A fine of up to €4,500. Operational Restrictions: Potential temporary or permanent prohibition from managing a training organization. Legal References: Articles L.6355-8, L.6355-9, and L.6355-23 of the French Labour Code. 5. Irregularities in the Nature of Services Provided Potential Sanctions: Operational Restrictions: Annulment of the activity declaration if services do not align with legally defined training actions, leading to a ban on providing training services. Legal Reference: Article L.6351-4 of the French Labour Code. 6. Insufficient Information to Trainees Potential Sanctions: Financial Penalties: A fine of up to €4,500. Operational Restrictions: Possible temporary or permanent prohibition]]></description>
		
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			</item>
		<item>
		<title>Watchdogs meeting 12th February 2025</title>
		<link>https://thelanguagenetwork.online/watchdogs-meeting-12th-february-2025/</link>
					<comments>https://thelanguagenetwork.online/watchdogs-meeting-12th-february-2025/#respond</comments>
		
		<dc:creator><![CDATA[Ian BAILEY]]></dc:creator>
		<pubDate>Wed, 12 Feb 2025 19:15:58 +0000</pubDate>
				<category><![CDATA[Communication]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Meetings]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Training]]></category>
		<guid isPermaLink="false">https://thelanguagenetwork.online/?p=1138</guid>

					<description><![CDATA[Teaching Challenges Opening the meeting, Lynda and Ian discussed their experiences with teaching in higher education establishments and the challenges they faced, sharing their common preference to negotiate the content with the students, showing respect for their preferences. The conversation also touched on the use of technology, with Margherita joining the discussion and sharing her experiences with a new microphone.  Teaching Approach and Assessments Lynda discussed her teaching approach, which involves assessing students&#8217; needs and interests before designing the course content. She mentioned that she had used Chat GPT to help write up programmes for her students last term and planned to start with assessments this term. Lynda also mentioned a meeting with the responsible pedagogy to validate her approach and seek resources. Margherita and Ian suggested using a self-assessment grid to help students evaluate their own language skills. Lynda also shared her experience of having lively and enthusiastic students who were eager to read books and participate in class discussions. Improving Language Skills With Assessments The team discussed strategies for assessing and improving students&#8217; language skills. Marie proposed a group activity where students would assess themselves and then discuss with their peers, with the teacher providing feedback afterwards. We also discussed the use of an assessment tool, CLOE, which is free but doesn&#8217;t provide the teacher with a copy of the results. The team agreed to try out these strategies in their classes. Tests, Presentations, and Tools The team discussed various topics, including a listening test, a presentation task for students, and the use of a new community tool for polls. Lynda shared her plan to assess students through weekly presentations and mentioned a new course designer. Ian expressed his surprise at the quick booking of the meeting and suggested the possibility of another meeting next week. The team also discussed the confusing nature of the Calendly tool and the potential use of the new community tool for polls. Language Network Website Access Issues Ian, Margherita, Lynda, and Marie discussed issues related to accessing the Language Network website and the Fluent Community. Margherita and Marie initially encountered difficulties logging in, with Margherita mistakenly logging into WordPress instead. Ian clarified that the login process is separate from the website and that users can create their own accounts and Ian demonstrated how to do so. Users can create their own accounts to access the community, comment on posts, and contribute their own posts. Introducing New Online Platform Features Ian introduced the new online platform, explaining its features and how to use it. He demonstrated how to navigate the feed, spaces, and chat functions, and how to upload documents and links. He also discussed the limitations of the previous blog system and the need for a more functional platform. Lynda and Margherita expressed some confusion and asked questions about the new system, while Ian reassured them that it was easy to use and that they could experiment with it without any risk of doing any harm. Ian also acknowledged the need to create a space for job postings. The team agreed to continue exploring the new platform and to share their experiences with each other. Webinar on Chat GPT and Learnbook The team discussed a webinar about Chat GPT that Richard Osborne had conducted. Lynda mentioned that she had started watching it but got interrupted. Margherita and Ian also expressed interest in watching the recording. The team also discussed Learnbook, a platform that Richard Osborne had created, which was designed to centralize resources and send notifications to learners. The team agreed to watch the webinar recording and explore the Learnbook platform further. Exploring Communication Platforms and Groups In the meeting, Lynda, Margherita, Ian, and Marie discussed their experiences with various communication platforms, including Whatsapp, Telegram, and LinkedIn. They shared their thoughts on the pros and cons of using these platforms, particularly in the context of managing multiple groups. Lynda expressed interest in learning more about the Learn Book thing and the Linguaid webinar, which Ian agreed to share on the Language Network Community. Online Marketing and Networking Strategies The discussion focused on online marketing strategies and networking groups for business. Margherita and Ian shared their experiences with BNI (Business Network International) groups, noting the benefits of improving networking skills and business pitches, but also the time commitment required. We discussed the importance of having an online presence, particularly on LinkedIn and Google, for targeting potential clients. The conversation also touched on the need to evaluate the return on investment for networking activities and the challenges of balancing business networking with personal life commitments. Qualiopi Mutual Support Group Meeting Update The group concluded their meeting and discussed the next scheduled Quality Mutual Support Group meeting on Wednesday, March 26th at 6:30 PM. Ian mentioned that Kathleen had previously sent out the meeting link on January 17th, but that he could also post it on the online community, as this is password-protected.]]></description>
		
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