· 0.3% increase in Spanish
· 5.4% decrease in French
· 4% decrease in other modern language
· 0.2% increase in German
Vicky Gough, British Council Schools Adviser, said:
“Congratulations to all students receiving their GCSE results today! Spanish has now become the most popular GCSE language, overtaking French for the first time.
“However, the decrease in language uptake for French and other modern languages follows a worrying trend.
“With the removal of the Ebacc and languages becoming optional, many pupils are being discouraged from learning a language in favour of other curriculum subjects.
“This year’s Language Trends England report found more than seven in ten secondary schools reported they cannot organise classes for pupils in Year 7 according to the language(s) they learned at primary school.
“Language learning not only broadens horizons but deepens cultural understanding.
“We must continue to bring all languages to life through exchanges, cultural programmes and real-world connections to allow students to understand why languages matter.”
Bernardette Holmes MBE, Honorary Professor at UCL-IOE and NCLE Director, said:
“Congratulations to everyone who has achieved a GCSE in languages. Your success today represents more than an examination result.
“Language skills provide a foundation for exciting opportunities ahead. Whether you choose an academic or a vocational pathway, language and cultural learning will become an asset throughout your further education and future career.
“We encourage you to continue with language learning to a higher level. Too many young people close the door to language learning too early, limiting their opportunities to develop their full potential and restricting their life chances.
“In an increasingly interconnected world, language skills and intercultural understanding are not desirable extras, they are essential for the future success of individuals, communities, and society as a whole.”
Nicolas Ehler, Director of the Goethe-Institut London, said:
"The rise in GCSE German entries is welcome news and a positive sign for the future of language learning.
“These results show what is possible when young people are given access to high-quality language education and meaningful opportunities to engage with other cultures beyond the classroom.
“Language learning equips young people with essential communication and intercultural skills, and we are encouraged by developments that support international exchange and help more young people experience the value of languages first-hand.”