The Resurgence of Learning a Second Language in the UK

According to a YouGov Poll, it seems that many British adults regret not paying attention in their French or German courses at school, as most believe languages should become obligatory in school again. Many are expressing shame in not being able to speak another language, stating that they would love the opportunity to learn a second language again.

According to a poll commissioned by the British Academy, only 21% of adults in the UK say that they can converse in a second language. This could be because of how foreign language GCSEs have become optional at most schools in England, with the number of people studying languages plummeting since the enforcement of the policy.

Today, many agree with the sentiment that children and teenagers should not be allowed to drop their language courses at just 14-years-old. According to a survey of more than 2,000 UK adults, the majority agrees that that studying a modern language should be mandatory in primary school (64%) and in secondary school (71%).

Recently, the British Academy has renewed its call for the right to learn a language, also known as a statutory entitlement, for students from ages 5 to 18. The Languages Gateway, an online resource designed to broaden access to language learning for people of all ages in the UK, will soon be launched, too.