It's time for primary and second-level schools to apply for a language and cultural assistant. Up to 65 assistants from EU members states will be placed in Irish schools for between 12 and 16 hours a week over a period between three and eight months. Language teaching is the main brief but the aim is also to create an awareness of other countries and culture.

Closing date for school applications is next Monday. The scheme is fully funded by the European Union and schools are not expected to contribute financially to the scheme. However, schools must appoint supervisors to monitor assistants' work and wellbeing.

Applications must be made on the official form, which is available from the LINGUA Unit, Institiiuid Teangeolaiochta Eireann, 31 Fitzwilliam Place, Dublin 2. For information phone Gormfhlaith Ni Thuairisc at (01) 662 0446.