LS19

Proposed Learning and Skills Measure Committee Consultation

CYDAG

i) Is there a need for legislation to reorganise 14-19 provision?  

Yes there is a need for legislation as there are so many barriers in this field for it to happen without changing the statutory framework.

CYDAG’s view is that it is crucially important that giving equal status to both the Welsh and English language is at the heart and core of the new legislation. This has not been achieved yet, even with the changes made in the wake of the first consultation.  

Likewise, there is a need for the legislation to include and show clearly the full and equal right of learners to receive the same wide and varied provision through the medium of Welsh and English equally.  This right should not be diluted by applying conditional clauses such as 'where this is practically possible’, etc. We are tired of seeing such clauses which excuse providers and statutory bodies from safeguarding the full status and rights of the language and learners.

ii) Does the proposed Measure achieve the policy objective, or could changes be made without legislation?

As noted under (i), there is a need for legislation but the quality, range and full support of the legislation must be ensured in order to safeguard the full and equal rights of each learner in terms of language medium and geographical context etc.  

iii) What are the views of stakeholders who will have to work with the new arrangements?

The views of CYDAG schools were expressed in the response to the original consultation.

If there is not a comprehensive consideration of language medium and geographical settings, it is foreseen that it will not be possible for a number of CYDAG members to satisfy the needs of the legislation whilst also satisfying the aims of Iaith Pawb and of implementing their language policies.

iv) What might be the barriers to delivering the policy agenda, and does the proposed Measure take account of those barriers?

Unfortunately, there is a long list of barriers which can prevent or encumber the implementation of the policy agenda, especially in the Welsh-medium sector but also in less populated and rural contexts, such as:

• Lack of robust equal rights for learners in terms of access to courses and qualifications through the medium of Welsh and English

• Lack of consideration for the real costs of cooperation, including factors such as transport, travel time, buildings and teaching resources, where ones that are loyal to and satisfy equal rights in terms of language and geographical setting simply don’t exist.

• Lack of ensuring the availability of the full range of provision in terms of accreditation and attaining qualifications on a totally equal level for Welsh and English medium

• Provision of teaching and training resources in order to ensure that courses and qualifications are available equally through the medium of Welsh and English

The complete list of barriers is long. Strong will and political action are needed very swiftly if the legislation is to root and thrive in a way that truly protects the equal right of each learner.

On behalf of CYDAG

Arwel George
Secretary