- Entries for international language GCSEs in Wales show a welcome increase of 8.5% at 4,292, offering hope after last week’s decline in A-level entries
- French remains the most popular international language in Wales with 2,269 entries, up 6.7% from 2024's 2,126 entries
- Spanish entries have increased 17% from 1,359 entries in 2024 to 1,591 entries this year
- German entries however, have fallen 7% to 432 entries after a big rise in 2024 to 468.
Ruth Cocks, Director British Council Wales, said:
"Many congratulations to every student in Wales receiving their GCSE results today. Those who chose to study international languages deserve particular recognition for embracing the challenge of learning new ways to communicate and connect with the world.
"After last week’s concerning decline in A-level entries, where international language entries fell by 25%, it is encouraging to see more young people are choosing to engage with international languages at this crucial stage.
"However, we must ensure these students continue their language journey. Last week, we saw that German A-level entries have fallen to just 42 students across all of Wales, and German uptake at GCSE has declined after a previous rise in 2024. With Germany remaining a key international trade partner for the UK, the drop in language learning raises concerns about our future ability to build strong, meaningful ties.
"From our Language Trends Wales research, we know that GCSE participation provides a key indicator of future entries into A-level and beyond. We remain committed to supporting language learning across Wales, working closely with the Welsh Government, schools and educators to champion the vital importance of international languages.
"Every student receiving international language results today should be celebrated for choosing to engage with the world. Linguistic abilities are vital for helping forge connections for individual careers, for Wales, and for building trust and understanding in an increasingly fractured world."
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