Thematic report |
Welsh Language Development in the Foundation Phase - January 2013
This report is produced in response to a request for advice in the Minister's annual remit letter to Estyn for 2011-2012. Its purpose is to: report on the implementation of the Welsh Language Development Area of Learning in the Foundation Phase in schools and non-maintained settings; and highlight examples of best practice.
Recommendations
Schools and settings should:
- ensure that enough time is devoted to the direct teaching of Welsh;
- plan good opportunities for pupils to use Welsh in other areas of learning and in outdoor activities;
- increase the level of skills input to develop pupil’s writing in Welsh;
- monitor provision and progress in Welsh Language Development; and
- provide practitioners with opportunities to improve their Welsh language skills and language teaching skills.
Local authorities should:
- provide support and training in Welsh Language Development for headteachers, Foundation Phase leaders and lead practitioners;
- provide better access to Welsh language support and training for practitioners, especially in non-maintained settings; and
- share good practice in Welsh Language Development.
The Welsh Government should:
- review whether the Foundation Phase Outcomes Indicator should capture children’s progress in Welsh Language Development;
- develop additional Welsh language and pedagogy training for practitioners in non-maintained settings; and
- provide more exemplar materials of good practice in Welsh Language Development.