Irish primary schools to enhance foreign language education

Many primary schools in Ireland are preparing to teach foreign languages as part of a new curriculum. This change is part of a broader effort to encourage children to learn languages from an early age. Schools like Scoil Chrónáin in Swords have already started this initiative with a program called Say Yes to Languages. This program allows schools to teach languages such as Japanese and French over a ten-week period. At Scoil Chrónáin, the response has been enthusiastic. The number of teachers volunteering to teach languages has increased significantly. Jane O’Toole, a teacher there, noted that teachers are eager to improve their language skills and try teaching. The new curriculum will gradually include foreign languages, starting with basic greetings and moving towards more complex communication in later years. While excitement is high, challenges remain. O'Toole mentioned that the implementation will be a slow process, and schools may need to begin with short language modules. A report from the National Council for Curriculum and Assessment revealed mixed feelings about the language roll-out. Some educators worry that adding new languages could affect the status of Irish. Others, like Loreto Desmond, the principal at Scoil Chrónáin, believe these concerns may be exaggerated. She feels many primary teachers already have a good foundation in foreign languages. The school management is even offering sponsorship for teachers to take language classes to refresh their knowledge. The introduction of foreign languages is also seen as a way to create a more inclusive environment. Many students come from homes where different languages are spoken. Karen Ruddock from Post-Primary Languages Ireland emphasized the importance of recognizing these languages in schools, even if they are not systematically taught. Despite these efforts, fewer students are taking foreign language exams at the Leaving Cert level. Ruddock noted that this drop is partly due to the wider variety of subjects available now. She believes it is important for students to choose languages willingly rather than feeling forced. The aim is to foster a love for language learning during primary school that continues into secondary education.