Esmark Prioritizes Danish Language Training: Record Number of Employees Learning Danish with UCplus

Once again, Esmark has chosen UCplus as its partner to strengthen the Danish language skills of its international employees.

Tailored Danish lessons ensure conversation skills and relevant vocabulary

Esmark’s employees come from many different countries and have varying levels of Danish proficiency. That is why the 31 participants have been divided into three groups based on their language skills. This ensures that the teaching is adapted to each individual’s needs and abilities.

One of the groups is an FVU (Preparatory Adult Education) class taught by UCplus language consultant Annemette Knudsen, who always focuses on making the lessons authentic.

“The participants in the FVU class already have a solid foundation in Danish, so we work with more advanced content. For example, we focus on words like sustainability, environment, and values. The next step is a visit to an Esmark holiday home, where

employees will practice a series of work-related situations. We try to include everyday tasks as often as possible because it makes the lessons more relevant and useful.”

All classes emphasize conversation practice, so employees gain the tools to participate more actively in everyday dialogue at Esmark. Participants work on expanding their vocabulary, so they feel more confident talking about their work tasks and events during a typical workday. For example, they practice naming items in holiday homes and the tools they use on the job – and are now juggling words like broom, fridge, and limescale remover. They also learn to talk about hobbies and the weekend, making it easier to engage in informal conversations with colleagues.

High Motivation

UCplus language consultant Ulla Fuusgaard Kumaraku, who teaches one of the other groups, explains that there is always a positive atmosphere in class and that the participants are very engaged:

“They show up every time, they’re happy, and they ask good questions. For example, they ask about Danish expressions they hear at work, and they want to understand how to use them.”

In addition to the language content, participants also gain insight into Danish work culture and have the opportunity to ask questions about situations they encounter in their daily lives. This strengthens both their language awareness and their understanding of the workplace environment.

“Each week, they understand more and more, and it’s clear they’re using what they’ve learned,” says Ulla Fuusgaard Kumaraku.

A strong partnership

Danish language training has become a fixed part of Esmark’s winter season. Stephanie Dittrich, HR Business Partner at Esmark, explains why the company continues to invest in the language development of its international employees:

“We prioritize the language upskilling of our international employees because we see it as an investment in both their personal development and the ongoing success of the company. Strong language skills lead to better communication and understanding, which is essential in our line of work where we interact daily with colleagues, guests, and homeowners. By ensuring our employees can express themselves clearly and precisely, we can deliver an even better service experience and strengthen team dynamics. It also demonstrates our commitment to creating an inclusive work environment where all employees have the opportunity to grow and thrive.”

Help your international employees learn Danish

UCplus offers a range of flexible solutions for Danish language training at the workplace. Lessons can take place at the company site, at the nearest language center, or online.

UCplus handles all coordination and provides skilled teachers who deliver Danish instruction tailored to the employees’ language levels.

It is possible to apply for compensation for lost work hours if classes are held during working time. UCplus also assists with this application process. Read more here