Language Trends Wales 2024
Since 2015, Language Trends Wales has provided crucial insights into International Language teaching across Welsh schools and colleges. The 2024 research highlights the sharp decline in International Language learning in Wales over the last decade, reflecting the trend across the rest of the UK.
International Language uptake at GCSE level remains critically low, with nearly 70 per cent of responding secondary schools reporting that none, or less than 10 per cent of Year 10 students were taking an International Language for GCSE or other Level 2 qualification. The report identifies two critical intervention points at ages 14 and 16 where pupil participation drops significantly.
This year's findings come at a crucial time as Wales implements its New Curriculum, with its emphasis on plurilingual approaches to language learning. The research highlights both challenges and opportunities: while international language learning faces significant barriers, Wales's bilingual foundation and primary pupils' enthusiasm for languages provide strong potential for positive change.
Download the latest Language Trends Wales report
If you would like to find out more, please contact TeamWales@britishcouncil.org.