Boosting all languages in our schools: Developing Gujarati Language and Culture Conference March 2025
On Saturday 22nd March 2025, Gareth Thomas MP for Harrow West, the India All-Party Parliamentary Group, The 1928 Institute, and UCL’s Faculty of Education and Society held a conference exploring the teaching and learning of Gujarati language and culture in England.
The conference was also supported by the exam board Pearson UK, who offer Gujarati as a qualification at GCSE and A Level.
Gujarati language teachers and leaders, along with other interested practitioners from across the country, gathered together for this lively and enriching event at the Mandeville Hotel in London.
There has been a 44% decline in the number of people taking a GCSE in Gujarati in the last 10 years – making these conversations around the teaching and learning of Gujarati critical.
Gareth Thomas, MP for Harrow West, gives a keynote speech exploring the importance of teaching and learning Gujarati.
(No image credit required)
Gareth Thomas MP for Harrow West, a keynote speaker at this event, is passionate about enhancing young people’s opportunities to receive a qualification in Gujarati:
“Given the global significance of the Indian economy, it seems sad that we have seen such a very steep decline in the teaching of the languages of modern India, including Gujarati. Having people who can speak these vital community languages is essential for UK businesses and communities. I hope this conference will be the first step towards reversing this decline and promoting the teaching of Gujarati in the UK.”
Speakers and panellists explored a range of themes including early years and primary Gujarati teaching and learning, the role of culture in languages education, teaching of phonics and grammar, and preparation for Key Stage 4 exams.
Speakers facilitated a deep dive into the speaking exam and conducted workshops on translation and using film in the classroom.
Bernardette Holmes MBE, NCLE Director, also led discussions on strategic ways to collaborate with Gujarati language organisations, experts and educators to build capacity and address the challenges and issues faced by Gujarati teachers and learners.
Bernardette Holmes MBE, NCLE Director, introduces fellow presenters Clare Allison (NCLE) and Sonal Shah.
Image credit: Mahesh Liloriya
Image credit: Mahesh Liloriya
Support from NCLE for home/heritage/community languages
Mainstream schools can support all young people to benefit from learning the languages connecting them with their household, community and heritage – including Gujarati, and many other languages that may not be taught in many mainstream settings.
Clare Allison, NCLE’s Development Officer for Home, Heritage and Community Languages offers guidance about HHCL accreditation here on our website.
NCLE’s free, self-paced, fully flexible and accessible e-learning platform will also support teachers and leaders’ professional development in supporting HHCL in their context.
Join our mailing list and be the first to know when the platform is launched!