Languages have vital role in primary school

IT IS extremely concerning that training for primary teachers in modern languages has been abandoned in nearly a third of Scotland's councils.

Nine of the country's local authorities, including Aberdeen and East Lothian, no longer offer any courses in languages, according to data gathered under freedom of information law.

Little wonder that these findings add to the growing criticism of the policies being pursued in relation to what teachers are taught.

Yesterday's revelations led to warnings that Scotland could suffer economically in future because young pupils would be denied access to language learning, a reasonable criticism given the need of the country to trade beyond these shores.

However, there is more to language learning than just the economic benefit. Having a second or even third language – whether it be French, Mandarin Chinese, or Gaelic – expands children's horizons and broadens their leading capabilities.

It is to be hoped, therefore, that Graham Donaldson, former head of Scotland's school inspection body, HMIe, who is carrying out the examination of the issue, will take a long hard look at the training of primary teachers in language.

If Mr Donaldson finds it wanting, as the evidence suggests he may, he should not hesitate to make the case for a greater focus on an area of vital importance to our children's and our country's future.