New research from the University of Cambridge [I’ve heard of them] reveals how few schools in England [*apologies to the rest of the UK] have coherent policies on languages, English usage, & integrating students who speak English as an Additional Language (EAL).
🔍 The study examined almost 1,000 secondary schools & found that only 6 had whole-school policies that addressed these issues.
Most schools had isolated, unclear, & inconsistent policies, especially on key issues such as supporting EAL learners, or the status of community languages like Polish & Urdu.
😱 This is worrying, since language is fundamental to how students learn, conceptualize ideas, & process information. The absence of clear policies could pose challenges for England’s 1.7 million EAL students, who often have strong multilingual skills.
The study also raises concerns about how far language learning & multilingualism are encouraged within the curriculum- spoiler alert: not very far!
It suggests that language learning, & an appreciation of different languages, is being deprioritized, conflicting with Government ambitions for 90% of students to study a language to GCSE by 2025.
The authors argue that language policy is best handled by schools themselves, rather than nationally, because this allows them to tailor their approach to the needs & linguistic context of local communities.
*In Scotland, the education system is overseen by the Scottish Government & is based on a curriculum that emphasizes critical thinking & creativity.
England & Wales have a more traditional curriculum, with a stronger emphasis on academic achievement.
- What do you think of the outcomes of the research?
- How are language issues handled in your schools or your country?
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