Becoming a Language Teacher

ALL is a keen supporter of trainees and ECT teachers of Languages, as well as   recruitment and retention with respect to languages teachers.

2026-2027: The current landscape

Languages in Schools

  • French, Spanish and German remain the most widely taught languages in England.
  • According to Language Trends 2026, French is still the most commonly offered language at Key Stage 3, while Spanish retains more pupils at GCSE and A level transition points.
  • Languages are statutory from Key Stage 2 (ages 7–11) and throughout Key Stage 3 (11–14).
  • GCSE languages remain optional, but many schools encourage pupils to continue to age 16 to support Progress 8 measures.

    Growing Linguistic Diversity

    There is increasing provision for additional languages in some regions, either within the curriculum or as enrichment. These include: Arabic, Bengali, Italian, Mandarin, Polish, Portuguese, Russian and Urdu, among others. If this is of interest you might like to visit the HHCL webpage hosted by ALL: Home Heritage Community Languages

    Curriculum Review (2024–2025)

    The DfE curriculum review and Government response highlighted for Languages:

    • A need to bring coherence in transition from KS2 to KS3 in language learning through a standardised approach to vocabulary, phonics and grammar to help progression
    • The ending of the EBacc measure

    And more generally

    • A need to review curriculum breadth, diversity and volume.
    • The impact of accountability measures on young people’s choices and outcomes.

    Proposal for amendments to the National Curriculum etc. are expected in 2026-27.

    These findings may influence future teacher supply, curriculum expectations, and language provision.

    Funding and Support for Trainee Language Teachers (2026–2027)

    Financial Incentives

    Languages remain a priority recruitment subject.

    Subject Knowledge Enhancement (SKE)

    SKE courses continue to be funded by the Department for Education to support applicants who need to strengthen their language knowledge before starting training:  How to apply for teacher training

    Applying for Teacher Training (2026–2027)

    Where to Start

    The Get Into Teaching website remains the best starting point for:

    • Understanding routes into teaching
    • Checking funding eligibility
    • Finding courses
    • Getting personalised one‑to‑one support

    Application Timeline

    • Applications typically open October the year before your course begins.
    • Apply early if you may need an SKE course.
      • International applicants: SKE completion deadline is June.
      • UK applicants: SKE completion deadline is August.

    International Applicants

    • Many providers offer Student Visa sponsorship.
    • After training, applicants may move to other visa types depending on eligibility.
    • The Graduate Visa allows two years (18 months on 1 January 2027) to work as an ECT but is not a settlement route.
    • As an ECT you may be able to secure a Skilled Worker Visa on your first appointment.

    For more information on Visas please check: Visas for non-UK teachers | Get Into Teaching GOV.UK

    In April 2026 the issues around barriers created by conflicting policies for international teachers wishing to train and work in the UK were presented at Westminster. 

    International applicants:

    Sponsorships for a Student Visa is offered by providers, check your eligibility here

    Following completion of the training course, there is the possibility of moving to other types of visa, depending on your situation.

    The Early Career Teacher (ECT) induction programme post-completion of a Qualified Teacher Status (QTS) programme last two years. This is completed on the job as you get your first teaching job.

    Check different eligibility for a graduate visa for ECTs here. Cost for Graduate Visa here

    Please note the graduate visa is not a route towards settlement in the UK.

    In April 2026 the issues around barriers created by conflicting policies for international teachers wishing to train and work in the UK were presented at Westminster. 

    Meeting at Westminster to Address Visa Barriers for International Teachers


    Early Career Teacher (ECT) Induction

    After gaining QTS, new teachers complete a two‑year ECT induction, supported by mentors and school‑based professional development.

    How ALL Supports Trainee and Early Career Teachers

    For Trainees

    • Reduced rate of ALL membership for trainees Become a member
    • Access inspiring stories from teachers and learners via My Story 
    • Download the Shortcut created specially for you: ALL as you do your training 2026: Click here

    For ECTs

    • Access to specialist networks, resources, and professional communities.
    • Visit  ECT years to find out about how ALL continues its support for the first 2 years of qualified teaching.