Just 11% would choose to be fluent in Welsh, new survey reveals
SPANISH has been named the language people in Wales would most like to speak fluently — with Welsh trailing far behind, according to new research.
A survey by Rosetta Stone found that 43% of people in Wales would most like to wake up fluent in Spanish. By contrast, just 11% said they would choose Welsh over other languages.
The findings come despite Welsh being embedded in everyday education across the country. The language has been compulsory in maintained schools for pupils aged five to 16 since 1990, following the Education Reform Act 1988, and has been a core part of learning for children aged three to seven since 2008. It is taught as either a first or second language, with growing emphasis on immersion and fluency by the time pupils leave school.
However, when asked which language they would voluntarily choose to learn, Spanish topped the list — mirroring trends seen across Britain.
Travel appears to be a key motivator. One in five (20%) people in Wales said they would be inspired to learn a language when preparing for a trip abroad, while 85% said cultural context was an important part of the learning experience.
The research also highlights ongoing perceptions about age and language learning. Two in five (43%) respondents in Wales believe you need to start learning a language as a child for it to stick. At the same time, a slightly higher proportion (53%) said they believe anyone can learn a language at any age.
Despite this, nearly a quarter (24%) admitted they have felt “too old” to learn a new language, and that the belief had stopped them from trying. More than half (58%) said they believe some people naturally have a “knack” for languages.
Technology is increasingly shaping how people approach language learning across the UK, with 60% of Brits saying they have used or plan to use AI or translation tools. In Wales, however, attitudes appear more cautious. Only 30% said they have used or would use AI tools to help them learn, while 45% said they would not.
Jason Brickey of Rosetta Stone said it was encouraging to see strong interest in language learning.
“It’s inspiring to see so many people engaging with language learning, especially in ways that place culture and connection at the heart of the experience,” he said.
“We’ve long known that speaking another language opens doors and strengthens relationships, but what’s particularly exciting about this new research is how people are embracing technology to support their learning.
“That said, mindset is crucial. We firmly believe that anyone can learn any language with enough time, practice, and support.”
