Around 800 learners  attended International Women’s Day, which was hosted by Leicester College at The Empire Banqueting Suite and Conference Centre, on Thursday 6 March 2014.

International Women’s Day is marked on March 8 across the world every year. The day celebrates women’s economic, political, and social achievements.

Satinder Kaur Taunque, OBE, Deputy Lord Lieutenant for the West Midlands, Carol Leeming, singer, songwriter and a leading member from the African Caribbean Community and Leona Knotts from the NHS, were invited as guest speakers at the event.

Staff and learners  also gave inspirational talks, present songs and dances.

There were various stalls offering crafts, food, plants, clothes, jewellery and mehndi as well as a raffle. There was also an auction to raise money for the local charity Coping With Cancer.

The event was organised by Leicester College’s ESOL (English for speakers of other languages) department.

Geoff Saul, Curriculum Area Manager for ESOL, said: “The curriculum Area ESOL Vision highlights our aim to facilitate access for all our learners.

“We have put equality of opportunity at the centre of our provision.

“International Women’s Day is the day we join in the worldwide recognition of the contribution women make in every facet of all societies and that we demonstrate our contribution to the development and support of women through English language improvement.”