A report by the Welsh Language Authority has revealed a concerning trend: a decline in the number of students studying languages at A level in Wales. Despite the undeniable importance of language learning in our increasingly globalized world, the number of students enrolled in language courses at A level has significantly decreased in recent years. As a Welsh citizen, this trend is alarming and raises several questions about the motivation behind this decline.
According to the report, the number of students taking A level exams in French, German, Italian and Spanish has decreased by 15% over the past five years. This is particularly worrying considering the fact that Wales is a multilingual country with a rich cultural heritage, where the Welsh language is an integral part of our identity. It is even more surprising when we consider the numerous benefits of learning a language, both personally and professionally.
Firstly, studying a language opens doors to a whole new world. It allows us to communicate with people from different backgrounds, understand different cultures and appreciate the diversity of our world. In Wales, where we have a strong sense of community, learning a new language can also help bridge the gap between different communities and promote cultural understanding. As a Welsh person, I am proud of our culture and language, but I also recognize the importance of being able to communicate with the wider world.
Moreover, being bilingual or multilingual has been proven to have numerous cognitive benefits. It improves our memory, problem-solving skills and overall brain function. In a society that values intellectual capabilities, learning a language can give students a significant advantage. In addition, speaking multiple languages can greatly enhance career prospects, especially in a country like Wales where we have strong economic ties with other European countries. It can open up job opportunities in various fields, such as international business, tourism, translation and teaching.
So why are students in Wales turning away from language learning at A level? One possible explanation could be the pressure to choose subjects that are deemed more “useful” or “valuable” in terms of future career prospects. While the focus on STEM subjects (science, technology, engineering and math) is certainly important, it should not come at the expense of neglecting languages. In fact, knowing a foreign language can greatly complement skills in these fields and make graduates more competitive in the job market.
The decline in language learning at A level in Wales is not a problem that can be solved overnight. It requires a collective effort from the government, schools, teachers and parents. The government should allocate more resources towards promoting language learning and provide incentives for schools to offer a wider range of language courses. Schools should also offer more language learning opportunities, such as exchange programs and cultural events, to make the learning experience more engaging and practical. Teachers play a crucial role in motivating students to take up language courses, and their dedication and passion for teaching languages should be recognized and supported. Finally, parents can also play a crucial role by encouraging their children to learn a language and exposing them to different cultures.
It is also important to acknowledge the efforts that have already been made to promote language learning in Wales. The Welsh government has introduced a new language strategy, “Global Futures”, which aims to increase the number of students studying languages at A level by 100% by 2030. This strategy includes initiatives such as introducing a language in all primary schools, providing additional resources for language learning and offering financial incentives for students to take up language courses at A level.
In conclusion, the decline in language learning at A level in Wales is a concerning trend that needs to be addressed. As a language is not only a means of communication but also a way to understand and appreciate different cultures, it is crucial for our students to be equipped with language skills. It is our responsibility to ensure that language learning is valued and promoted in our society. Let us work together to reverse this decline and create a multilingual Wales that is ready to embrace the opportunities and challenges of the future.
