Calls to promote language learning in schools

The National Consortium for Languages Education (NCLE) has responded to the A Level results in modern languages, following a 9.1% decrease in French entries and 8.5% decrease in German entries.

Vicky Gough, British Council Schools Adviser, said: “The significant drop in French and German entries this year is alarming and highlights an urgent need for the increased promotion of language learning in schools.  

“Our most recent Language Trends research reveals a stark reality - language learning is becoming a privilege of the affluent. Small A-level class sizes are a growing concern with fewer than one-third of the most disadvantaged schools able to run them, meaning many young people have their language learning journey cut short. This inequality is compounded by a teacher recruitment crisis hitting the least affluent schools hardest - 68% struggle to find qualified language teachers, compared with 60% nationally. Fewer teachers mean fewer courses, forcing some schools to close language options entirely.  

“We know there is an appetite to learn languages. The rise in popularity of Spanish, which has a strong cultural appeal for young people, shows this clearly. To replicate this success, we must bring all languages to life through exchanges, cultural programmes, and real-world connections that show students why languages matter.” 

Bernardette Holmes MBE, Honorary Professor at UCL-IOE and NCLE Director, said: “The fluctuating A-level uptake in languages is a concern, and important work is underway to reverse the declining trend. Language learning is a social justice issue. Low uptake is not a question of lack of interest, but lack of opportunity. We know the decline in languages education hits disadvantaged communities hardest, restricting life chances and deepening inequality. Our challenge is to provide equal access to languages education and international experiences for all young people regardless of their background.  

“We need a call to action. The National Consortium for Languages Education, alongside our partners, encourages school leaders and languages teachers to sign up to our mailing list and join us in a concerted effort to turn the tide. Working with school networks and through online professional learning, we will be providing evidence-based, classroom-focussed solutions to inspire learners, support teachers and engage parents and employers."