The English group of the VZV meets approximately once every six weeks on a Wednesday evening, starting at 8 p.m. Meetings end at about 10 p.m. An increasing attraction of the meeting is the option of dining at a local restaurant beforehand (starting at 6 p.m.).

Meetings follow a fixed agenda: minutes of the last meeting, main discussion, problems encountered, observations of linguistic phenomena of interest (seen and heard), any other business. Meetings are chaired, generally by the host, and minutes are kept for future reference. The main topic of the meeting varies, but usually centres on a text or terminology list proposed by the person hosting the meeting. Topics often have a legal bias but this is not obligatory.

The atmosphere is relaxed and open. All members of the group translate into English and include both English and Dutch native speakers. Though the meeting is conducted in English, both languages -- and occasional Dunglish -- are spoken. This has not proved to be a problem in the past, nor is it expected to become one in the future. The group as a whole believes that we can learn from each other's mistakes as well as from each other's (sometimes impressive) skills.

The group has been meeting almost since the establishment of the VZV itself. The fact that most of the founder members still attend regularly is a tribute to the pleasant atmosphere of the group and the practical benefits which those attending receive.

New members are always welcome. If you wish to attend, please subscribe to the English Section mailing list (see below) and contact Pete Thomas, who will provide you with details.