Drop In Modern Language Learning In Wales
Education inspectors in Wales are urging schools to promote the learning of modern languages among pupils.
They highlighted the efforts of an award-winning teacher who arranged for three Spanish footballers from Swansea City FC to speak to her students in Pembrokeshire.
The report revealed that the percentage of Welsh students opting to study a foreign language at the GCSE level had fallen from 41% a decade ago to 28% two years ago. While the standards of language teaching were generally high, the report called for more to be done to encourage language learning. Estyn recommended that secondary schools dedicate a minimum of two hours per week to modern foreign languages during the first three years of secondary education and called for increased collaboration between English, Welsh and modern foreign language departments. The report also suggested incorporating languages into vocational courses such as tourism, business, and engineering.
It highlighted the importance of providing language skills as part of a well-rounded education, stating that they are vital for an international economy.