Schools: Modern Languages

Baroness Howe of Idlicote Excerpts

Tuesday 8th June 2010 Lords Chamber

[Lord Hill of Oareford]

I understand those points very clearly. In regard to the overall review of the curriculum, its content and the question of what should and should not be compulsory, we shall need to reflect on those points and come up with conclusions in due course.

[Baroness Howe of Idlicote]

My Lords—

[Baroness Walmsley]

Given the continued need for more specialist teachers and the continued budgetary constraints, will the Minister join me in welcoming the British Council scheme which funds temporary cover for teachers to go away during term time, as well as their own time, to foreign countries to increase their language skills? Will he encourage other organisations to put their money into similar schemes?