More than 2,000 English language students had an unforgettable evening at an event co-hosted by English UK and corporate member Lost in London.

Fiestaval, at Proud 2 on 30 July, featured samba dancers, Brazilian drummers, aerial performers, jugglers, beat boxers and many other eye-catching performers from different cultures. It attracted students from all over London and the South.

Tristan Bailey of Lost in London, which organises weekly parties as well as larger events, said: "We've been organising large scale events for language schools for years but this is the first we've done in collaboration with English UK.

'We wanted a celebration of different cultures under one roof and used performers from different nationalities to create an international party feel.

'Bringing happy, like-minded students together from around the world, in an awesome and safe environment, always creates an unbelievable atmosphere. This is why our parties are so popular.'

He added: 'Our aim is to create a party environment that students may never get anywhere else in London or even back in their native country.'

Jodie Gray, senior international manager at English UK, said: 'English UK hasn't been involved with anything like this before, but it was a fantastic night and the students really enjoyed it.'

Mr Bailey plans many more events. He said: 'Our biggest event yet was a Hallowe'en party for 3,000 and hopefully this year's will be bigger. We hope to continually create awesome memories for students visiting the UK.'

Notes to Editors

1. English UK is the world's leading language teaching association, with more than 450 accredited centres in membership. It covers university and further education college language departments, international study centres in independent schools, educational trusts and charities, and private sector colleges. English UK is a UK registered charity (www.englishuk.com)
2. Students who come to the UK to learn or improve their English contribute about £2 billion to the UK economy in course fees, accommodation and general spending. Many students go on from English language courses to UK degrees or professional qualifications. There are long-term affinity benefits to Britain as well, since many students go on to be opinion-leaders and senior figures in their own countries.
3. For further comment please contact Jodie Gray at English UK on jodie@englishuk.com.