Policy must be changed (From Western Telegraph)

Policy must be changed

Dear editor - As a former chairman of the Parent Teachers Association and governors of Fishguard High School and Dyfed County Council's schools committee, I am very concerned at the situation regarding the teaching of modern languages in schools today.

Under the directive from the Welsh Assembly, modern languages are no longer a core subject in Wales, they will receive reduced financial support and there will be less encouragement to study foreign languages. This is a retrograde and short sighted policy, as all indications are that closer social and economic ties with Europe will be accelerated. Thus, many of our school leavers will be denied the opportunities of being able to seek employment in the EU as they will have no language skills and will have received a narrower education and outlook on Europe. I would urge all concerned with education to work to redress this situation.

Hugh Williams Nant-y-Groes Tregroes Fishguard