Modern foreign languages recruitment post-16: the pupils' perspective

Abstract

In recent years, whilst the overall numbers of A level entries have risen, those for modern foreign languages as a whole have fallen. This paper considers the findings of a small-scale research project which focused on the reasons why pupils choose not to continue with MFL. GCSE pupils who were entered for the Higher Papers in French, German or both at three comprehensive schools were asked whether they were considering foreign languages as an option post-16, and if not why not. Year 12 linguists (those studying at least one foreign language) and non-linguists (those who do not) were interviewed both individually and in focus groups. Modern languages teachers were asked about possible reasons for the comparatively poor uptake at A level. Findings suggest that although pupils appreciate the skills and personality of the modern languages teacher, they find the subject difficult and unappealing. Low pupil confidence, lack of parental involvement, poor guidance and syllabus constraints may all have a role to play. GCSE is perceived to be boring and language understanding is felt to play an insufficient role at this stage.