Should Studying a Foreign Language Be Compulsory in Secondary Schools?

Learning a foreign language is about far more than memorising vocabulary and grammar. It opens the door to different cultures, perspectives and ways of thinking while preparing young people for an increasingly connected world. Although many students view languages as one of the more challenging subjects, I believe they should remain a compulsory part of secondary education. Every student should have the opportunity to experience the richness and diversity of other languages, regardless of whether they choose to use them professionally in later life.

The challenge is not whether languages are valuable. It is how schools can make language learning engaging, relevant and accessible for all students.

Languages develop more than communication skills

Research has consistently shown that learning another language offers benefits beyond simply speaking with people from other countries. Studies have linked language learning to improvements in memory, problem-solving, listening skills and cognitive flexibility. Research from the British Academy has also highlighted the economic, cultural and social value of language skills in an increasingly global economy.

Languages encourage students to think differently about communication and culture. They develop resilience as pupils learn unfamiliar vocabulary, sentence structures and pronunciation, while also gaining a greater appreciation of the diversity that exists beyond their own communities.

For many young people, studying a language may be their first opportunity to understand how language shapes identity and culture.

Preparing students for a global future

Today's students are entering a world where international collaboration is increasingly common. Businesses, universities and employers regularly work across national borders, and technology has made communication with people from different countries easier than ever.

Even if students never become fluent, having some knowledge of another language demonstrates adaptability, curiosity and a willingness to learn. Employers consistently value these transferable skills alongside academic qualifications.

Schools should therefore see languages not simply as another GCSE subject but as preparation for modern life. Whether students pursue careers in business, healthcare, engineering, education or tourism, understanding another language and culture can broaden opportunities.

The challenge is engagement, not the subject itself

Despite the benefits, modern foreign languages have seen declining GCSE entries over recent years. Research suggests that many students perceive languages as difficult and question how relevant they are to their future.

This presents a challenge for schools and exam boards. Lessons should focus on meaningful communication rather than simply preparing students for examinations. Greater use of technology, conversations with native speakers, cultural experiences and international partnerships could help students understand why languages matter beyond the classroom.

Schools could also make stronger links between language learning and future careers, helping students recognise that multilingualism is an advantage in many professions.

Compulsory does not have to mean uninspiring

Some argue that students should be free to choose whether they study a language. While choice is important, removing compulsory language learning risks narrowing young people's experiences at an early age.

In my view, every student should be exposed to as many rich and diverse languages as possible during their education. Schools have a responsibility to broaden horizons, not simply reinforce existing interests. A student who has never encountered another language may never discover a passion for travel, international business or cultural exchange.

However, making languages compulsory is only part of the solution. Exam boards and policymakers also need to review language qualifications to ensure they inspire curiosity and practical communication rather than focusing heavily on memorisation and examination technique. If we want more students to value languages, the curriculum must reflect how languages are used in the real world.

Learning another language is an investment in young people's futures. By ensuring every student studies a language while modernising how it is taught and assessed, schools can equip the next generation with the cultural awareness, confidence and communication skills needed to thrive in an increasingly interconnected world.