The challenges of including more languages in the GCSE framework

Why don’t all foreign languages make it onto the GCSE exam framework in UK schools? This was the question I was asked by the BBC World Service for the Weekend programme that was broadcast on 5th April.

Having previously acted as a GCSE Russian interlocutor and as a former secondary school governor, I believe the issue largely comes down to resources. Put simply, it’s not viable to include every language in the curriculum. Developing a course and designing exam papers takes considerable time and effort, which may not be justifiable when demand for a particular language is low. Demographics do change, of course, and exam boards should be more open to reintroducing qualifications that were previously developed and then shelved.

Still, making it happen is often anything but simple. Since GCSE exams include an oral component, they require the physical presence of an examiner to assess this part of the exam, and in some areas it can be difficult to find trained examiners for certain languages locally.

When I was first approached to support a GCSE Russian exam, it was unfamiliar territory. Although I’m a native Russian speaker, it was still a decision I had to weigh up: whether I was ready to take on such a responsibility. Conducting the oral part of the exam doesn’t just mean turning up and having a conversation. Understanding the structure, timing and assessment criteria takes preparation, and it’s not something that just any Russian speaker might feel equipped to do.

This year again I’ve seen parents asking around in online groups for advice on how to find a Russian speaker who can help their school and child with the Russian GCSE. Sadly, a lack of awareness in schools about where to turn for support can sometimes mean they’re unable to offer students the option to sit a GCSE in a language that might even be their mother tongue.

GCSEs are a hugely stressful time for students, and if someone is prepared to take on an additional exam, that should be encouraged. A strong GCSE grade in an extra subject can stand them in good stead, whether they go on to A-levels or take a different route in education. This is particularly relevant at a time when, with rapid advances in technology, many are questioning the need to study foreign languages at all.

[Tip: You can listen to the Weekend on BBC Sounds until 5th May, the time slot starts at 45:25]