College Language Ambassadors
Inspiring the Next Generation about language learning
Language learning in Wales has been in decline for many years. In 2024, only 10.34% of learners sitting GCSEs sat a GCSE in French, German or Spanish (StatsWales). This lack of engagement in language learning not only threatens individual opportunities but also the development of cohesive communities, and Wales’ ability to tackle global challenges.
Creating a pipeline of future language learners
Routes into Languages - a pan-Wales collaborative outreach project co-ordinated nationally by Cardiff University - works across multiple key stages to spread positive messages about language learning. Routes Cymru delivers an initiative to raise the profile of international languages in schools with the help of undergraduate students. It aims to inspire younger pupils, boost enthusiasm for languages, and create a pipeline of future language learners through a pupil-focussed programme of enriching activities and events.
Peer-to-peer support offered through these models successfully changes attitudes towards language learning. The SWCEP project funding extended this model to the further education sector by bringing together undergraduate students, college students and years 5 and 6 learners to explore languages together.
Students Lead the Way
Alongside Cardiff & Vale College, The College Merthyr Tydfil, Coleg y Cymoedd and Coleg Gwent, the project enabled undergraduate Student Language Ambassadors to train college students to become College Languages Ambassadors to share positive messages both within the colleges, and by partnering with local primary schools.
The college students visited seven local primary schools, delivering 27 interactive and culture-rich language taster sessions to learners in years 5 and 6, each designed to spark curiosity and excitement about languages. The response was overwhelmingly positive, with primary school pupils gaining a fresh perspective on the importance of languages and how they connect to the wider world.
Building Confidence and Skills for the Future
For many of the college students, this was their first real work experience opportunity—one that helped them develop valuable skills in communication, presentation, and problem-solving. The experience not only enhanced their confidence but also gave them a competitive edge for future employment or higher education.
By empowering young learners and providing college students with meaningful, skill-building experiences, this initiative is helping to reignite enthusiasm for language learning in Wales—one classroom at a time.
