It is often said that we are a lazy nation when it comes to learning languages.

Wherever we go, we expect everyone to speak English.

So how refreshing to see Oxford University students helping pupils at Oxfordshire secondary schools as they prepare for their GCSE exams in French and German.

The month-long pilot scheme has been such a success that it is continuing at one school until the end of term.

Teachers say that the pupils have benefited from being taught in smaller groups, and by people nearer their age.

The tuition will hopefully help them through their exams this summer - and encourage them to speak more fluently and confidently when they travel abroad, putting the rest of us to shame.