A group of young Bermudian students is learning to speak the language of Wagner, Michael Schumacher and Boris Becker.

For the Bermuda International House of Languages has started teaching German as a subject -- the first course of its kind on the Island.

The language school has hired German-born Petra Spangenberger to teach both youngsters for one hour a week after regular school classes have finished.

Seven students between the ages of seven and nine have signed up for the course, which will run throughout the school term.

And adults also have the opportunity to get to grips with the Aryan tongue, with two classes being held on Monday and Wednesday evenings.

School director Riquette Bonne Smith said: "This is the first time that German is being offered as a subject anywhere on the Island.

"Although none of the other schools have German on their prospectus I think it's a very useful language, particularly in the commercial world and in the insurance business.

"It's important for children to start learning at a young age so that they can acquire fluency in a language.

"But learning to speak a foreign language is a long term thing. You can't just sign up and do a quick course -- you learn over a lifetime.

"But it's not just about learning the language, as a native German, Petra can also bring to the class aspects of the country such as its culture and history.'' Mrs. Spangenberger, who has lived in Bermuda for the past five years, said: "I'm looking forward to teaching the children and they appear to be very enthusiastic, too.

Anyone wishing to enrol in the classes should contact the International House of Languages on 296 5676.