School children limited by lack of opportunities to speak and listen to modern languages
Primary schools are making good progress in introducing languages to children, but there are significant barriers to good language learning in secondary schools, according to a report published today by Ofsted, the Office for Standards in Education, Children’s Services and Skills. These obstacles include insufficient use of the chosen language in lessons and a drop in the numbers studying languages.
The report, Modern languages – Achievement and challenge 2007-10, recognises the significant efforts made to support languages – especially in primary schools – since Ofsted’s last languages report in 2008, highlights a number of weaknesses in the way secondary students are taught.