Curriculum Reforms Highlight the Future of Language Education in the UK

The 2025 Curriculum and Assessment Review has placed renewed emphasis on the value of language learning within a broad and inclusive educational framework. Recognising the importance of linguistic skills in today’s globalised world, the review proposes that all students should have the right to continue studying a language at Key Stage 4. This recommendation marks a significant step toward restoring the previous statutory requirement that mandated language study beyond the age of 14.

The reforms aim to encourage schools to prioritise language education, ensuring that young learners have ample opportunity to develop proficiency in a second language. Advocates argue this approach will not only enhance students’ communication skills but also broaden their cultural understanding and improve future career prospects.

 By making language study more accessible and compulsory for older students, the curriculum seeks to reverse years of decline in language learning participation, ultimately enriching the educational experience and better preparing students for a multilingual world.