To ask the Minister of Education, pursuant to AQW 49607/11-16, (i) for his assessment of the reasoning behind the declining numbers of examination entries; and (ii) how his Department is working with other bodies to encourage the uptake of the study of Modern Languages.

My Department closely monitors the uptake of modern languages at GCSE and A level. Whilst there has been some decline over recent years in French and German, there has been notable increases in numbers taking Spanish.

Students and their parents take into account a wide variety of factors when considering subject choices at GCSE level, including their enjoyment and aptitude for particular subjects as well as future careers or education prospects. I believe students who enjoy learning languages will continue to study languages at GCSE level, despite Ulster University’s announcement. When these pupils come to consider third level education, they will be able to choose from a range of universities here or further afield depending upon their subject specialism.

Whilst I have had no discussion with the Minister for Employment and Learning on Ulster University’s announcement, I believe acquiring a second language has significant benefits for both the local and global economies and it is up to all of us to continue to promote the advantages which studying a modern foreign language can bring in terms of access to vibrant and exciting careers.

My Department is continuing to work with a wide range of external bodies to promote the importance of second language learning including the Languages Council, the Centre for Information on Language Teaching, the Confucius Institute and the British Council. My officials also liaise with colleagues in the Department for Education and Skills in the south and the Department for Employment and Learning; with HE and FE sectors as well as the Council for the Curriculum, Examinations and Assessment.