A blog about Why International Languages Matter More Than Ever

A blog by Matthew Jones HMI

Last year, Estyn published our thematic review International Languages in Schools in Wales – Languages Matter Talking Points. As the lead author, I had the privilege of visiting schools across Wales, talking to teachers, leaders and pupils, and seeing first-hand both the opportunities and the challenges for international language learning. As we celebrate the European Day of Languages this September, I wanted to reflect on what I learnt during those visits and why I believe learning international languages matters now more than ever.

If there’s one thing the review reinforced for me, it’s this: young people are naturally curious. Time and again, I met pupils who were eager to try a new phrase, fascinated by different cultures and delighted when they discovered they could communicate in another language. They weren’t worried about getting every word right. They simply wanted to have a go. Watching those moments reminded me why languages have always mattered. At their heart, they are about people. They help us understand one another, build relationships and see the world from a different perspective.

More than another subject

Sometimes, languages can be seen as just another subject on the timetable. My visits to schools reminded me that they’re much more than that.

I saw pupils growing in confidence because they were willing to take risks and speak in another language. I saw classrooms where mistakes were celebrated as part of learning, and where curiosity was just as important as accuracy. I heard pupils talking about places they wanted to visit, people they wanted to meet and careers they had never considered before. Those conversations stayed with me.

Learning another language gives young people knowledge and skills, but it also develops confidence, resilience and an openness to new experiences. Those qualities will serve them well whatever path they choose in life.

For learners in Wales, there is another important dimension. Growing up in a bilingual nation gives many young people a unique starting point. Learning an international language builds on that experience and helps them see multilingualism as something normal, valuable and achievable.

So much to celebrate

One of the greatest pleasures of the review was spending time in classrooms where languages were alive. I met teachers whose enthusiasm inspired pupils to have a go without fear of making mistakes. I saw creative lessons full of music, stories, role play and conversation. I watched pupils make connections between languages and discover that learning one language often helps them understand another.

Perhaps most encouragingly of all, I saw that many young people genuinely enjoy learning languages when they are given engaging experiences and can see a purpose in what they are doing. That should give us confidence.

Keeping the momentum going

Of course, the review also highlighted challenges, particularly when looking at the low numbers of pupils choosing to study languages at GCSE and beyond.

Not every learner has the same opportunities, and the experiences of pupils still vary too much from one school to another. As pupils move through school, it can become harder to maintain the enthusiasm that is often so evident in the early years.

But I don’t think the answer is just to persuade young people that languages are worthwhile. From what I saw, many already believe that. Instead, our challenge is to nurture that curiosity, build pupils’ confidence and help them understand the opportunities that languages can bring. That means continuing to make language learning enjoyable, relevant and connected to the wider world.

It’s also something that extends beyond schools. Families, employers, universities and communities all have a role in showing young people that speaking another language can open doors—to travel, friendships, careers and a richer understanding of the world around them.

Looking back—and looking forward 

A year after publishing the report, I don’t find myself thinking most about the recommendations or worrying statistics. Instead, I remember the pupils who were excited to share what they had learnt, the teachers whose passion filled their classrooms and the many conversations about why languages matter. Those experiences left me feeling optimistic. 

The European Day of Languages is a wonderful opportunity to celebrate the many languages that enrich our schools and communities. It’s also a reminder that every young person deserves the chance to discover the confidence, curiosity and opportunities that learning another language can bring. 

If you haven’t yet read our thematic report, I’d encourage you to take a look. I hope it not only highlights the challenges we still face, but also inspires schools to build on the excellent work that is already happening in many schools across Wales.