Training schemes are improving Welsh language skills in further education, but overall impact is inconsistent

A new report by Estyn finds that while training schemes aimed at enhancing Welsh language skills in the further education and apprenticeships sector are making a positive impact, there are inconsistencies in their long-term effectiveness and strategic implementation.

The report, ‘Increasing the use of the Welsh language in post-16 sectors’ evaluates the training programmes provided by Coleg Cymraeg Cenedlaethol under the Gwreiddio Scheme, which supports the Welsh Government’s Cymraeg 2050 strategy to increase the number of Welsh speakers. The study focuses on three key initiatives within the scheme: E-learning sessions, Sgiliaith provision, and the Work Welsh in Further Education scheme.

Findings show that these initiatives have successfully increased the number of practitioners who speak Welsh and register their ability to work through the language. However, there is limited evidence to directly link the training to long-term improvements in teaching through the medium of Welsh. While more learning activities now include ‘a small amount of Welsh-medium learning,’ there has been little growth in higher-level bilingual and Welsh-only teaching.

Chief Inspector Owen Evans said:

“It is encouraging to see progress in supporting further education staff to develop their Welsh language skills. However, training must go beyond the basics and provide more opportunities for practitioners to embed bilingual teaching into their lessons. Strong leadership, clear strategic planning, and a commitment to moving beyond initial language proficiency are crucial to ensuring long-term impact.”

The report highlights examples of effective practice where providers have achieved greater impact, including strong strategic leadership, financial incentives for bilingual teaching, and dedicated time for staff to complete training during working hours. However, inconsistencies remain, particularly in forward planning, quality assurance, and monitoring the effectiveness of training at a national level.

To address these issues, the report recommends that Coleg Cymraeg Cenedlaethol provide more guidance and challenge to further education colleges and apprenticeship providers to measure the effectiveness of training. It also calls for an extension of Sgiliaith provision to offer a recognised professional qualification for bilingual teaching, as well as more financial and practical recognition of Welsh language skills in the sector.

Further recommendations urge the Welsh Government, further education colleges, and apprenticeship providers to ensure consistent language provision and refine professional development opportunities to advance bilingual pedagogy.

Read the full report here.