6 November 2007
Eastbourne is a very popular destination for students wanting to learn English, in 2007 the town played host to around 30,000 students. This is a similar figure to that of last year but, with an average stay of two weeks for each and every student this year, they are staying in Eastbourne for longer.
Based on an industry average, the language student market in Eastbourne is valued at £30 million a year. This figure includes the economic impact such as income to language schools and host families as well as the shops, cafes and attractions in the town.
Eastbourne is being more protective of students too. Students are less likely to be a victim of crime than in previous years, in 2005 there were 96 offences against students and in 2007 there were 35. Whist every offence is treated seriously this decline shows that, together with the police, the local community is acting more responsibly as hosts for these visitors.
Councillor Mattock, Eastbourne Borough Council representative on the Overseas Student Advisory Committee says ‘Foreign Language students are an asset to Eastbourne providing a huge benefit to the local economy. I am delighted that they are now choosing to stay in Eastbourne for longer which just goes to show how popular our town is, and is a credit to the hospitality of the local people.’
The Overseas Student Advisory Committee, whose membership includes the language schools, transport providers, the police and the council, has been working hard to ensure the safety and enjoyment of Eastbourne by students and it would appear the investment is paying off.
