Please find below SCILT's 2013 analysis of published SQA statistics on language trends in Scottish schools.

Amongst the three main languages (French, German and Spanish) at SCQF Levels 4 & 5, German is the only language on an upward trend, in contrast to its decreasing uptake at Higher grade.  However, despite a general downward trend, uptake of French is still substantially above that of both German and Spanish.

Amongst the lesser studied languages, uptake for Chinese Languages (mostly Mandarin Simplified) has increased exponentially since its introduction in 2009, already surpassing uptake in Urdu. We believe that this rise is set to continue because of policy makers’ emphasis on the link between languages and employability, and the general perception of China as a rising economic power.

For more detailed information, please download the Language Trends:

• Modern Language entries at SCQF Levels 4-5 (2009 - 2013)
• French, German and Spanish at SQA Higher Grade: Uptake and Centres 2000-13; Uptake and Attainment 2008-13 (French, German, Spanish)
• Lesser studied Modern Languages at SQA Higher Grade: Uptake and Centres 2000-13; Uptake and Attainment 2008-13 (Italian, Gaelic learners, Urdu, Mandarin)