Language learning in schools
We are committed to ensuring that all children and young people in Scotland are equipped with the skills they need for life and work in an increasingly globalised world. We value all language skills and recognise they are an essential part of this commitment.
This is why, since 2013, we implemented an additional language learning policy, known as the 1+2 approach. We plan to review the provision of modern languages in schools and look to expand opportunities for learning new languages.
The 1 + 2 approach
The 1+2 approach aims to improve and expand language learning by offering all school pupils the opportunity to learn languages in addition to the language(s) used in their school as the medium of education.
A first additional language (Language 2 or L2) should be taught continuously from P1 until the end of secondary S3. It must be one of the eight languages that pupils can take up to national qualification level which are Cantonese, French, Gaelic (Learners), German, Italian, Mandarin, Spanish and Urdu.
Teaching of the second additional language (Language 3 or L3) should start no later than P5 until the end of P7, and again at some point in the secondary Broad General Education (BGE). This L3 can be any language including a language from the L2 set.
Schools and local authorities decide which additional languages are taught in line with Curriculum for Excellence.
Support for implementation 1 + 2
Between 2013 and 2023 we provided £36.8 million to local authorities to implement the 1+2 approach. The funding was used to provide teachers with professional learning, particularly in the primary sector where the class teacher would lead language learning.
We also provide annual grant funding to key partners such as the University of Strathclyde and its National Centre for Languages and the British Council to support professional learning for teachers, pedagogy and leadership, immersion courses, provision of language assistants, competitions and other projects.
We are working in partnership with Education Scotland to ensure that parents, teachers and others with an interest in language learning have access to advice and support that will help them to understand and implement the 1+2 approach.
Progress with 1 + 2 implementation
In partnership with the Association of Directors of Education in Scotland (ADES), the Convention Of Scottish Local Authorities (COSLA) and Education Scotland (ES), we carry out a regular survey of local authorities on the implementation of the 1+2 approach. These reports are published at: