The TDA is aiming to train up 1,575 language teachers this year, in order to meet current demand for language teachers. A new bursary of up to £20,000 will be available for language graduates to enter teacher training.
The number of pupils expected to sit language GCSEs next year has risen by 22% to 52%, thought to be due to the requirements of the new English Baccalaureate – but at the same time, the number of modern foreign language teachers has declined in recent years, due to the fall in the number of pupils studying language GCSEs and A-levels, leading to fewer students studying languages at university.
The TDA says it has already received nearly 3,000 enquiries into teaching French, Spanish and German, and that 845 had formally applied. However, it added: "Despite what looks to be a bumper year for enquiries into teaching languages, the growing interest amongst pupils means even more quality teachers are urgently needed. The new English Baccalaureate is having an immediate impact – hugely increasing the proportion of pupils taking the core academic subjects."
More information: http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/education-17343273.