Why are fewer students choosing languages in sixth form? A level Languages still matter but are largely a forgotten subjects.
Recent figures reveal that one in three sixth forms now have no students enrolled in French, Spanish, or German.
Experts warn this decline could have long-term consequences for young people’s futures, including reduced employability, lower salary potential, and a lack of cultural understanding.
The experts at Preply, a platform that supports fast and efficient language learning, explain why this drop is happening and why learning a second language still matters.
Why are fewer students choosing languages in sixth form?
For many young people, languages can seem like a difficult choice compared to other subjects.
Without early encouragement or positive experiences, they might feel that languages won’t help them get the grades they need for university or their future goals.
But it’s not just about what’s happening in the classroom. In the UK, English is so dominant that it can be hard for students to immediately see the value in learning another language.
These two factors combined have left many sixth forms battling to keep their language classes alive.”
What impact could this decline have on young people’s futures?
This decline is really concerning, as it limits opportunities for thousands of young people later in life.
Being able to speak another language is a massive advantage in today’s job market. Employers value people who can build relationships across borders, and that often translates into better career opportunities and higher salaries.
In industries such as business, law, tourism, tech and many more, being multilingual can open doors that might otherwise stay closed.
But the benefits go far beyond work and study. Learning a language can build confidence, improve problem-solving skills, and help young people understand the world around them in a wider context.”
What can schools and colleges do to make languages more appealing?
One of the most powerful things schools and colleges can do is show students how languages connect to real life. Without this, they’re unlikely to understand their value and may lean towards subjects that feel more relevant.
Showing how languages lead to job opportunities, travel, and an overall more colourful future makes them feel exciting and useful.
Giving students chances to actually use the language makes a huge difference too, whether through school trips, pen-pal exchanges, or even interactive virtual sessions with native speakers.
These experiences show that languages are about so much more than passing exams.
What can parents do to support their child’s language learning?
You don’t have to be fluent to help your child. Even small steps can make a big difference.
Ask them to teach you a new word they’ve learnt, watch a film in another language with subtitles, or practise a few phrases over dinner.
These small moments associate language learning with positive experiences and show that it can be fun and part of everyday life.
When children feel that learning a language is enjoyable and useful, they’re far more likely to stick with it, right through sixth form and beyond.