Cutting language courses puts social mobility at risk, say UK experts
Summary
UK experts and former education ministers warn that cutting language courses at universities and schools could harm students’ future chances and social mobility. They say fewer language classes, especially in state schools and elite universities, could limit job opportunities and widen inequality.Key Facts
- The University of Exeter plans to cut 150 full-time jobs, mainly in humanities, putting 70 language academics at risk.
- The University of Nottingham has proposed stopping all language degree courses.
- Only 22% of state secondary schools require languages at GCSE level, compared to 41% of independent schools.
- Language degrees often have lower entry requirements than subjects like maths, law, or economics at elite UK universities.
- More students from less wealthy backgrounds could get into top universities by studying languages due to less competition.
- Experts warn that closing language faculties reduces links between languages and tech, engineering, and digital studies.
- Former education secretaries say cutting languages sends a negative message and could deepen social divides.
- Language skills are important for many job opportunities and improving social mobility, but cuts threaten these benefits.
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