People
of all ages can now get credit for their language skills with the launch of the
pilot National Recognition Scheme.
The
Department for Education and Skills has commissioned the University of
Cambridge to develop an assessment scheme that will enable people of all ages –
from seven-year-olds to adults – to get credit for their language skills.
People
who choose to take part will be assessed on listening, speaking, reading and
writing skills in their chosen language. They will get recognition at a number
of stages depending on their ability, ranging from ‘breakthrough’ to ‘mastery’.
Pilot
schemes will operate over the UK from September in French, German and Spanish.
The scheme will then become available nationally in 2005.
