Recent findings from Language Trends England 2024 highlight the ongoing challenges in language teacher recruitment and the critical importance of language education in today’s global society
CREDIT: This is an edited version of an article that originally appeared on British Council.org
According to recent findings from Language Trends England 2024, a survey conducted by the British Council, over half of schools have encountered difficulties in hiring qualified language teachers. The research, which involved more than 1,300 primary, secondary, and independent schools, highlights significant challenges in recruiting language educators, with six out of ten secondary schools reporting issues with finding potential candidates.
A quarter of the schools surveyed reported that allocated language lessons have been affected by pupils spending additional time on literacy and numeracy. Additionally, some teachers expressed concerns that languages might be removed from the timetable altogether due to staffing shortages. This is particularly troubling in a multicultural society where language education plays a vital role in fostering cultural understanding, inclusivity and global competence.
To address these disparities, the National Consortium for Languages Education (NCLE) has established a national network of lead hub schools across England. Each lead hub school is providing training to up to seven partner schools to enhance language teaching and learning standards nationwide. This autumn, NCLE will also launch a universal professional development course for all language teachers across England, available free of charge.
Vicky Gough, Schools Adviser at the British Council, said: “It’s concerning that despite concerted efforts to recruit language teachers, schools are still struggling to find qualified staff. A shortage of language teachers threatens our ability to provide comprehensive language programmes in schools. Addressing this challenge is crucial for equipping all students with the language skills they need to thrive in a global society. We must also ensure existing language teachers receive high quality continuing professional development. The National Consortium for Languages Education is working collaboratively with schools across the country to make sure this happens.”
Despite the decline in language teacher recruitment, the 11% surge in Spanish entries in 2023 suggests it is on track to overtake French at GCSE, demonstrating the subject’s enduring importance in education. Addressing current disparities in language education and supporting teachers through initiatives like those from the NCLE is essential. This will ensure students acquire the vital language skills needed to navigate and thrive in an increasingly interconnected world.
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