Welsh language immersion can continue: union welcomes clarification

4 February 2019

Welsh language immersion can continue: union welcomes clarification

UCAC education union has welcomed the clarification published by Welsh Government today that Welsh-language nursery groups (‘cylchoedd meithrin’) and primary schools will be able to continue to use Welsh only as part of their ‘immersion’ teaching model.

The statement confirms that they will not be obliged to “teach English as a compulsory element of the new curriculum for Wales” as had been stated in the White Paper published last week.

Rebecca Williams, UCAC’s Deputy General Secretary said, “We are pleased that Welsh Government has responded to our calls, alongside many others, to make a categorical statement about their intentions in relation to the immersion teaching model.

“We welcome the recognition that the wording of the White Paper was not an accurate reflection of the Government’s intentions.

“The unanimity and ferocity of the response from parents and organisations proves the value of immersion as an approach that creates bilingual citizens. It also emphasises the need for constant vigilance, and the importance of scrutiny and protest within a democratic system.

“We look forward now to responding to the detail of the proposals which should see our curriculum moving forward to a new and pioneering era.”

ENDS

Notes

For further information please contact:

Rebecca Williams: 07787 572180 This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.