A FORMER Bournemouth foreign student has returned to the resort to open up his own language school.

Mazen Damdam, who is from Yemen, is the owner of the Oaks Academy of English on Charminster Road, which opened on July 8.

Guests at the opening ceremony included Bourne-mouth Mayor Cllr Rod Cooper and Mayoress Elaine Cooper.

Mr Damdam said: “It’s important to me that the school is in Charminster because it is a wonderfully multicultural area. It is perfect for students and offers a home-from-home feel; we want our students to really enjoy their stay here.

“Bournemouth has the perfect geographical location as well as historical landmarks and stunning sandy beaches. It is very popular with foreign students.

“Far from being a negative factor, due to the level of competition this drives up the quality of education on offer.”

He added: “I want this new school to be the first of many; I plan to expand and encourage foreign students to continue coming to the UK to learn English.”

Mr Damdam added: “Despite the economic downturn in recent years, it can only benefit an individual to increase their skills. Having such an important language under their belt is essential. Many of our students will go on to study at our excellent universities.”

The mayor expressed a keen interest in attending the opening ceremony because of his passion for language schools, and he spent time talking to the students about their future plans.