Pupils Learning Languages

More than £7 million has been announced to help teach more languages in Scotland's schools.

The 44% increase in funding will go towards a commitment of every primary school pupil learning a second language from primary 1 and a third language from primary 5, at the latest. 

It'll bring Scotland in line with other European countries.

Minister for Learning Alasdair Allan said: “In today’s global, multi-cultural world it is more important than ever that young people have the opportunity to learn languages from an early age. The ability to speak different languages will equip Scotland’s young people with the skills and competencies needed in a 21st century global marketplace.

“We want to ensure the enthusiasm for languages starts at an early stage in a child’s education. We know that learning a language supports a child’s cognitive development which is proven to also help improve general attainment. By introducing the 1+2 model, Scotland is leading the way in the UK in this area. 

“This additional funding will help schools and teachers plan for and continue their good work inspiring and supporting children to learn new languages.”

Curriculum for Excellence allows schools to be flexible in choosing what additional languages are offered to pupils, taking into account local circumstances, interests and resources.

Early evidence from local authorities who are making strong progress shows that cluster planning is essential and that secondary schools need to consider the implications of a new cohort of enthusiastic and able linguists moving up from primaries in the future.

Cllr Douglas Chapman, COSLA Education, Children and Young People Spokesperson said: “Councils are the driving force behind improving educational outcomes for children. Local government is committed to ensuring that young people leaving school are equipped for an increasingly competitive and connected world. Having a good grasp of another language helps to broaden horizons and provides a set of skills for young people that are applicable to a wide variety of careers.”

“The funding announced today is welcome and recognises the hard work that is being put in by local authorities and schools up and down the country. The announcement on funding comes after considerable work by local authorities through COSLA to cost the delivery of the policy. We are happy to continue to work with Government to ensure that the policy is resourced for future years.”

Bruce Robertson, Association of Directors of Education for Scotland said: “The Association of Directors of Education for Scotland is delighted that the Scottish Government has made this funding announcement for such an important programme. This is significant not only for our children and young people but also for our economic prosperity.”