Thursday 17 August 2023

 

  • There has been an increase in entries for international languages with German up by 12.1%, Spanish 8.9% and French 1.2%
  • French is still the most popular language at A Level, followed by Spanish then German
  • Entries across all international languages still down compared to pre-pandemic levels in 2019

 

Ruth Cocks, British Council, Director Wales, said: 

“My warmest congratulations to the thousands of students across Wales who received their results today. This year’s outcome gives us cause for optimism, with entries to A Level International Languages on the up, defying the broader trend observed in other subjects.

“However, while it is heartening to see this positive shift, there is still a need for caution, with entries across all International Languages still down compared to pre-pandemic levels. As stated in our most recent Language Trends 2022 report, languages are vital for the future of Wales as it seeks to build and strengthen relationships across the world and develops international trade relations.

“Languages enable us to work together on global challenges, as well as opening doors for pupils to discover new people, places, and cultures and connect internationally. We need to do everything possible to keep flying the flag for languages, and the British Council remains dedicated to working with the Welsh Government, schools and educators to make language learning a priority.

“On behalf of everyone at British Council Wales, I wish all students the very best for the next steps in their journey. The world is your oyster!”

The British Council’s latest Language Trends Wales report will be published in the Autumn. Find out more about Language Trends Wales here: https://wales.britishcouncil.org/en/language-trends-wales

 

Notes to Editor

For more information, please contact:

Claire McAuley, Senior Media and Campaigns Manager, UK Region -  claire.mcauley@britishcouncil.org. M: +447856524504

About the British Council

The British Council is the UK’s international organisation for cultural relations and educational opportunities. We support peace and prosperity by building connections, understanding and trust between people in the UK and countries worldwide. We do this through our work in arts and culture, education and the English language. We work with people in over 200 countries and territories and are on the ground in more than 100 countries. In 2021-22 we reached 650 million people.