Language learning for young people suffered more than many other core subjects during the lockdown months of 2020-21, according to the British Council’s Language Trends Report 2021.
International activities that make language learning for young people rich and vibrant – things like school trips to other countries and foreign exchanges – were understandably off the curriculum.
But the Report laid bare that over 53% of primary schools and 40% of high school students in England became disengaged from languages during lockdowns.
So, it’s worth leveraging International Youth Day to highlight the urgent need for language learning for young people to resume at pace as the world reintegrates.
International Youth Day is celebrated on 12th August. It’s all about giving a voice to young people and championing issues that matter to them. They’re tomorrow’s leaders, after all.
To this end, language learning for young people gives them multiple voices.
The British Council’s schools adviser Vicky Gough echoed this sentiment when she commented on the alarming statistics the Report revealed –
“As education begins to recover from the pandemic, it’s essential that schools prioritise language learning and look to build back international opportunities and connections.
“The benefits of having language skills and some understanding of other cultures cannot be overstated, particularly as the UK renegotiates its place on the world stage.”
At La Academia, we’re famous for language learning for young people. We love it. It’s in our DNA.
We’ve advocated language learning for young people long before the pandemic. We continued to do so remotely throughout lockdowns. And, we always will.
There’s no lower age limit for language learning for young people here. We’re bringing some of our most popular six-week courses back by demand for children from 4 years old, such as –
· New Spanish course for reception class children starting Monday 20th September, 4.00-5.00pm
· New Spanish course for primary school children starting Monday 21st September, 4.00-5.00pm
· New French course for primary school children starting Monday 21st September, 4.00-5.00pm
In addition to primary age courses, we offer group and individual options for young people of all ages, including GSCE and A-Level support. Get in touch for a chat about your needs.
Sources
Covid-19 disrupts school language offer in England, Viggo Stacey, The PIE News
https://thepienews.com/news/covid-19-impact-on-language-learning-in-england-revealed/