This is why multilingual multitaskers might already know the secret we’re about to reveal.

You’ve probably felt the flick that happens when you switch tongues, and suddenly you’re bolder, softer, funnier, or blunter.

Same brain. Same body. Different feeling.

So, what’s going on?

Do Different Languages Make You a Different Person? 

Kind of, yes. And here’s the scientific evidence…

A group of bilingual Spanish-English speakers were asked the exact same questions in each language. They described themselves differently, depending on which language they used to answer.

Moreover, people often come across as more outgoing, breezier, and more open in their second language.

The academic term for this is cultural frame switching. It means a new language plugs you into both a different vocabulary and a different emotional operating system.

“Cultural frame switching (CFS) can be used to describe the switching of different language use depending on the context,” explained researchers at the University of Granada in their study The Effect of Sociolinguism on Advertising Slogans: Language as a Conveyor of Cultural Characteristics

“Thus, CFS can be connected to cultural accommodation, which occurs when bilinguals respond to situations with the language that applies best to the situation they find themselves in.”

Fascinating stuff.

Why Your Native and Secondary Languages Impact Differently

 Interestingly, your first and second languages subconsciously influence you in different ways. For example:

• Your first language is soaked in memory, emotion, and years of both positive and negative baggage.

• A second language creates a bit of breathing room and acts as a buffer between you and your feelings.

• The distance of a second language is often why it’s easier to say hard stuff in another language, like “I’m sorry,” “I love you,” or “I’m furious with you.”

New Language, New Soul

 There’s an old saying about learning a new language and gaining a new soul. But ultimately, the influence is less poetic and more neuroscientific.

At la Academia, we look forward to seeing which version of you shows up in your second language. And there’s only one way to find out.

Get in touch about the new beginners’ courses in different languages starting in September. And prepare to unleash the hidden depths you never knew you possessed.

But it’s certainly a prime moment to celebrate Gaeilge, the language at the heart of Ireland’s identity.

This ancient Irish language is making a lively resurgence in 2026, supported by music, television, education, and public services.

And the sheer volume of younger people signing up to learn Irish is proof the Emerald Isle’s rich culture currently has a cool factor.

A Cultural Comeback

The scrum down to learn Irish is highest among Millennials and Gen Z, accordingly to Éanna Ó Caollaí’s latest Irish Times article Adults aged under 35 and women most enthusiastic about learning Irish language, survey finds.

He reports: “… greater interest in the language among younger demographic with 74% in the 25-34 age group stating a desire to learn or improve their Irish, and 71% in the 18-24 age group”.

As for the reason, he states: “Respondents under the age of 25 (93%) showed the strongest agreement that musical artists and other people in the public eye using Irish have a positive impact on how people view the language”.

The data clearly reflects Ireland’s cultural influences on the younger generations, driven including:

• Direct influence of artists such as Irish language rap group Kneecap igniting interest in Gaeilge

• Indirect influence of TV hits like Kin, Trespasses, Say Nothing, House of Guinness, Derry Girls and The Walsh Sisters instilling national identity and pride

For these reasons, Gaeilge is no longer perceived as traditional, but trendy.

Why Learn Irish Now?

 Have Irish roots? Love the culture? Learning a few phrases is an inspired way to: 

• Connect with Ireland’s rich heritage
• Discover a unique and expressive language
• Share your newfound Irish charm with friends near and far

Get in touch with us, at la Academia, to learn Irish and start finding your own pots of gold and rainbows’ ends in your everyday life.

Travel writer Liv Kelly analysed recent survey results in her Time Out article These are officially Europe’s happiest cities in 2025, according to locals, which was based on criteria such as:

• How joyful everyday life feels
• How positive people are
• Whether their city genuinely makes them happy

The results were revealing. And very Spanish.

What You Can Learn from Spain’s Happy Cities

 Four Spanish cities landed in Europe’s top ten happiest places to live:

• Seville – Europe’s happiest city overall
• Valencia – Relaxed, sunny, and community-oriented
• Bilbao – Where every single local surveyed said they’re happier there than anywhere else
• Madrid – Vibrant, social, and bursting with energy

As for what these places have in common:

• Strong social connection
• Everyday joy
• A culture where communication is highly valued

You could say exactly the sort of mindset that makes learning a language feel dynamic rather than dull.

And you don’t have to cross Mediterranean waters to start sharing the feel-good factor. 

Why Learn Spanish in 2026?

 The good news is a leading language school like la Academia gives you the best of both worlds:

• Immersive, conversation-led lessons inspired by real life Spanish culture
• A confidence boost
• A sociable learning environment
• Skills you can use for travel, work, and everyday life 

Accordingly, progress follows when learning feels social, relaxed and human.

So, you’re in good company to learn Spanish in 2026 at la Academia. And you can start your journey without delay on one of our forthcoming Spanish courses:

• SPANISH – Conversation Group (Online)

Monday 19th January 2026 | 6.00 – 7.00pm
Six consecutive weeks online via Zoom | Tutor: Andrea | £75

• SPANISH – Complete Beginners (Daytime class – smaller group)

Wednesday 21st January 2026 | 10.00 – 11.30am
Six consecutive weeks at la Academia, Cheadle | Tutor: Andrea | £120

• SPANISH – Complete Beginners (Evening class)

Thursday 22nd January 2026 | 7.00 – 9.00pm
Six consecutive weeks at la Academia, Cheadle | Tutor: Liliana | £120

• SPANISH – Complete Beginners (Evening class)

Thursday 17^th February 2026 | 7.00 – 9.00pm
Six consecutive weeks at la Academia, Cheadle | Tutor: Gaby | £120

Get in touch if the happiest places in Europe are motivating you to finally learn Spanish in 2026.

Here’s your cue to stop right now. Because the latest research shows age is no barrier to picking up a new tongue. In fact, it might even give you an edge.

This is PROOF older adults in their 60s – 80s can absolutely learn a language – and make a really good job of it, without excessive brain strain.

Why There’s Golden Potential in Grey Matter

 Ageing causes hearing, vision, and processing speed to slow a little. But this is a lifetime of experience kicking, rather than cognitive deficit.

Karen Roehr-Brackin of the Department of Language and Linguistics at University of Essex explained in her recent article Your age shouldn’t put you off learning a new language – what the research says for academic news analysis site The Conversation:

“In this context, it is also important to highlight the fact that general and especially verbal knowledge can actually grow with increasing age.”

In short, you’ve simply got more knowledge to sift through. It takes time. But your verbal skills and general knowledge often improve over the decades.

It’s What You Do, Not How You Do It

Roehr-Brackin’s study found the end results are the same, whether you learn a language: 

• Explicitly – with detailed grammatical explanations
• Implicitly – by immersion and practice

In addition, she also spotted some fascinating patterns in terms of mindset and social status, such as:

• You’ll pick up new grammar and vocab more easily when you’ve got positive self-belief you can do it.

• You’ll learn faster if you’re still working or socially active than if you’re retired and slowing down.

The takeaway? Confidence, curiosity, and connection keep your brain in learning mode. And learning a new language is a prime example of doing just that.

Age is No Excuse Not to Learn a Language

At la Academia, there’s no expiry date on language learning. Just fresh opportunities to surprise yourself – and any doubters!

Get in touch for a chat about the language you’ve always wanted to learn. You might be astonished to find the only thing stopping you is yourself.

Mental Pilates

As Professor Li Wei from the Institute of Education at UCL puts it, “Learning new languages is an exercise of the mind. It’s the mental equivalent of going to a gym every day.” Who knew flexing those language muscles could work wonders for your concentration, problem-solving skills, memory, and creativity?

Anti-Ageing Properties

A groundbreaking study by Ellen Bialystok in 2007 revealed bilingual people have got a head start in protecting their brains against dementia. Dr Thomas Bak from the University of Edinburgh explains, “Bilingual people develop dementia four to four-and-a-half years later than those who don’t.” It’s a powerful tick in the box of cognitive reserve.

Cultural Expansion

Bilingualism goes beyond brain gains. Professor Antonella Sorace highlights how it cultivates empathy and understanding of different perspectives, while Dr Bak points out it influences emotional expression and rational thinking.

So, when is  the best time to hop on the bilingual bandwagon?

It’s Never Too Late

According to Professor Li Wei, there’s no such thing as too late! Learning a language as a child builds new neural networks. But tackling it later in life? It’s like upgrading your brain’s WiFi connection! The challenge is greater, but so are the rewards.

That said, recent research at Great Ormond Street suggests starting early has its perks too. Dr Frederique Liegeois found that early bilingual children had stronger brain connectivity, like indulging in a mental glow-up every day.

At la Academia, you’re assured a bonanza bilingual journey. We’ll have you mastering words, for sure. But it’s also about broadening your horizons, embracing diversity, and seeing the world through a kaleidoscopic language lens. Get in touch to start your own linguistic adventure, and watch your brain – and your world – expand!

History has often shone the spotlight on male literary giants like Shakespeare, who gifted us with new words “swagger,”. And Dr. Seuss, the inventor of “nerd,”. But now it’s all change.

Sociolinguist William Labov told National Geographic’s Rachel Fobar in her article New words are spreading faster than ever—thanks to teenage girls: “Women lead up to 90% of linguistic changes”.

As we celebrate International Women’s Day, let’s take a closer look at what they’re saying – and why the world’s listening.

Why Women Lead the Lexicon Revolution

Words and phrases from the charm-filled “rizz” to the introspective “goblin mode,” have come to prominence online. These terms are going beyond words to become cultural markers, many of which are started by women.

This trend has many and varied roots, including:

• The broad social networks women cultivate and influence
• Their role as caregivers
• Their knack for being linguistic trendsetters

Even female characters from popular shows like Friends have been linguistic pioneers, thanks to Rachel, Monica, and Phoebe using intensifiers like “so” and “really” more than their male counterparts. It’s a clear reflection of how women, through their roles and interactions, shape the way we speak and connect.

So, let’s hear it for the girls! After all, young women might be shaping the future of fashion and social media. But they’re also crafting the words that define our experiences. May their creativity and influence continue to inspire our dictionaries and our conversations!

At la Academia, we’re in agreement with University of Toronto linguist Sali Tagliamonte when she said “language has its own path, its own system, and it changes whether we like it or not”. Get in touch to start a thoroughly modern language learning journey that focuses on what’s happening right now, in addition to harnessing the lessons of the past.

Demand for Flamenco lessons has surged dramatically, thanks to the irresistible allure of stage and screen hits like Burn the Floor and Strictly. So, it’s no surprise toe-tapping Brits are queueing up for a piece of whirlwind armography and vivacious costumes.

But there’s a twist that isn’t about the dance…

Spanish Language and Cultural Bonanza

Spanish language students of all ages are flocking to educational and participative Flamenco events. Or how about organising your own? What better way to enhance your language skills than by immersing yourself in the rhythmic beats and expressive moves of this passionate dance?

You see, Flamenco events are a symphony of sensations, with the mouthwatering aromas of paella and tapas wafting through the air, while jugs of authentic Sangria clink together, and the dancers eddy and promenade.

Moreover, it’s a grand production starring Spanish guitars, soul-stirring singing, and a chorus of hand claps and finger snaps that elevate the dance to a lively art form. And guess who’s completely mesmerised by it? Children.

As a result, schools are booking on-site Flamenco sessions. And why not? There’s so much more to gain than fancy footwork. It’s a confidence-boosting, concentration-enhancing, and flexibility-fostering extravaganza!

So, what are you waiting for? Isn’t it time to tap into the lessons, feasts, and language learning benefits spinning their way from the dance floor into hearts and minds?

At La Academia, we believe the fiery Flamenco is more than a dance. It’s a whole sensory experience that’s uniting cultures and generations, one vibrant step at a time. So, why not get in touch about our Flamenco event services for business or pleasure, or Flamenco dancing for schools.

The highest appeals body in Italy, the Corte di Cassazione, has taken up the charge to get to the bottom of the matter. In order to do so, it asked the Accademia della Crusca, the institution responsible for safeguarding the Italian language, to provide an official opinion on the use of gender-neutral language in the country’s court system.

The crux of the argument is this… Some critics are opposed the ongoing expression of a dominant patriarchy in the Italian language in the 21^st century. To this end, they’re advocating for the introduction of gender-neutral noun endings, particularly for the LGBTQ+ community and those identifying as non-binary.

But it’s a big no from the Accademia della Crusca.

Why? Because they argue it would be well-intentioned but only supported by minority groups. Additionally, they concluded the legal language isn’t a befitting arena for linguistic innovations, while also maintaining that the Italian masculine plural form remains the most effective means of collectively representing all genders and orientations.

On a more positive note, they acknowledged the increasing use of the feminine form for professional titles, signalling a recognition of the broader trend for gender inclusivity.

What does this mean for the Italian language?

The decision has significant implications for the Italian language and the court system. In short, it reaffirms the traditional use of masculine forms in legal documents, and rejects the adoption of gender-neutral terms or symbols.

As a result, it’s perceived as too conservative by proponents of gender inclusivity, who argue for a more progressive and inclusive language that reflects and respects diverse gender identities.

The debate looks set to rage on between those advocating for change in the Italian language, and those seeking to preserve linguistic traditions and norms.

Read the full article by Athina Kontos in Language Magazine.

At La Academia, we’ll be watching this space with interest as the situation unfolds. For more details on Italian classes and Italian tuition, get in touch online, or give us a call on 0161 491 1444.

This might be because of global career aspirations. Or, perhaps UK citizens are inspired by the Chinese people they encounter in everyday life. After all, the World Population Review confirms: “Countries with large Chinese communities and Mandarin speakers are the United States, Canada, the United Kingdom, South Africa, Nigeria, Mauritius, and Madagascar.”

With Chinese Language Day celebrated annually every 20^th April, its significance continues to multiply, alongside China’s soaring influence on the global stage.

Here are just a few reasons why there’s no shortage of appetite for the language of the Red Dragon amongst Brits of all ages and demographics:

• Valuable Communication and Cultural Skill

Chinese has become one of the most popular languages to learn in the UK. It’s even taught from primary to tertiary level in some schools across the country. Why? Because China is increasingly important as a major economic and political power. To this end, learning Chinese not only equips students to communicate, but also offers unique insights into Chinese culture, history and society.

• Sought After Business Language

As China’s influence snowballs, so does demand for professionals who can speak the Chinese language and navigate the Chinese business landscape. For this purpose, learning Chinese open ups many exciting career opportunities for UK students.

• Supports Overseas Expansion

Many UK companies are looking east to expand their operations in China. In order to realise their ambitions, they’re also looking for employees who can speak Chinese.

A La Academia, we welcome students of all ages to some and learn the Chinese language with us. We can’t wait to help get you prepped and ready to grasp the many exciting career opportunities awaiting you. Get in touch for the best options to suit your needs.

Anya Samek, Associate Professor of Economics and a co-author of the study told US San Diego Today: “We find girls are better… than boys in grades three through seven. Because girls are more likely to do well in language fields early in life, they may find themselves more inclined to choose them for majors and careers.”

But what are the reasons behind the metrics?

What better time than International Women’s Day on 8^th March to take a closer look?

What Makes Females Better Language Learners Than Their Male Counterparts?

In the 21^st century, the line continues to blur between what are considered traditional male and female characteristics. But here are a few explanations why female language learners might be racing ahead of male students:

• Natural Affinity – Listening. Understanding. Reading body language. All these aptitudes contribute to an innate empathy that serves language learners.

• Talk More – Controversial, perhaps! But females have always been perceived as the chatterboxes of the genders. If this is the case, it’s a great big tick in the box for expedited language learning.

• Steadfastness – Females are apparently more inclined to persevere despite difficulties. This means they’re more willing than males to accept and learn from dropping clangers, which is, after all, par for the course when learning a new language.

• Family Ties – Women are more likely than men to keep a language alive if two (or more) sides of the family speak different languages. For example, it’s usually Mum who ensures the children are able to have conversations with friends and relatives who speak in other languages.

At La Academia, we wish a happy International Women’s Day to all our amazing female language learners and teachers. But our equally brilliant male students and teachers shouldn’t feel left out. So, watch this space for International Men’s Day in November.