A recent study compiled as part of the European Survey on Language Competences (ESLC) has found that English teenagers are the worst in Europe when it comes to foreign languages.

Pupils of 14 European countries were tested through reading, writing and listening tests on the first foreign language taught in schools, and within these tests English pupils came last with the language of French.

The study found that the French reading skills of 90% of English pupils were “basic” meaning they could only understand short, simplified tests, and in their listening skills, 93% of those studying French again had just “basic” use in that they could only comprehend simple expressions and phrases.

Of the report a Department for Education spokesman said: “We are addressing the chronic lack of attention paid to foreign languages in schools.

“It is vital young people start studying a language at an earlier age. That is why from next year we are ensuring that children learn a language from age seven. They can then build on that at secondary school…”

Our Thoughts

We agree that learning another language is a really important skill, and doing so, helps pupils to explore the lives and cultures of others . Learning a language can also contribute to developing a child’s literacy and communication skills, and if introduced within primary school, can be enhanced by the child’s natural enthusiasm for learning, embracing and absorbing something new.

With this is mind, we have collated a series of modern foreign language resources for primary classes. Designed to fully engage pupils, our selection include interactive storybooks and audio cds to help pupils hear and practice pronouncing new words, and the range of voices presented give pupils the experience of hearing authentic French.

We have a varied collection of simple non-fiction reading books which help develop reading skills, and programmes such as 2Simple French which encourage interactive game playing for the whole class, pairs or individuals.

We believe that using these resources for pupils of primary school age will foster a fun and engaging approach to learning another language, and will create the ideal platform for pupils to build upon within their secondary school classes and beyond.