DEVON County Council is trialling an English language proficiency test, delivered by the popular learning company, Duolingo, to help refugees and people seeking asylum in Devon.

English proficiency tests are often needed by applicants to get into university or employment, but refugees and people seeking asylum often struggle to access the tests due to their cost, the testing location, or other commitments that prevent them from attending in person.

So, South West Council's ESOL (English for Speakers of Other Languages) co-ordinator, introduced Devon County Council to Duolingo because the app provider was looking for local authorities to work with to test its online language proficiency programme with speakers of other languages.

Duolingo has agreed to give the council hundreds of free tests to trial in exchange for the council providing feedback from people who take the tests, as well as other ESOL providers and teachers.

The trial started this month, with people able to take the tests online at any time and in any location to suit them.

Duolingo say that their proficiency test certificate, which successful candidates achieve when qualifying, is recognised by several universities, and that they align with the Common European Framework of Reference for Languages (A1-C2 levels).

Five community partners in Devon are helping to make the proficiency tests available to people, including:

• St Sidwell’s Community Centre

• Refugee Support Devon

• Imagine Torbay Multicultural Group

• Sunrise Diversity

• Teignbridge CVS.

Councillor Roger Croad, the Council’s Cabinet Member with responsibility for communities, said: “We were aware of the difficulties that many people seeking asylum and refugees have in taking English language proficiency tests, on the grounds of cost, and location of the test.

“And we know how essential these tests are in helping individuals find employment or further education.  So, we were pleased to hear about this opportunity to trial this new app to see how well it works, and how it might help people in Devon.  Certainly, it has the potential to be very positive.”

Duolingo say that the purpose of their pilot is to determine if the test improves the ability to assess English skills, access opportunities, and if it’s recommended by users.

If successful, Duolingo has said it will explore more opportunities to continue offering this testing.

Michael Lynas, UK Country Director for Duolingo, said: “Duolingo believes in using cutting edge technology to break down barriers to education and assessment.

“By helping migrants to certify their English language skills, we believe we can open up economic opportunities and improve community integration. We look forward to working with Devon County Council and we hope that this pilot will showcase how the innovative Duolingo English Test can be a force for good.”