In September 2001 the Nuffield Languages Programme commissioned a study into the feasibility of developing a national framework to recognise and define language competence, which would:

• allow people with, or wishing to acquire, language skills to obtain recognition of their achievement without unnecessary complication;
• offer a step-by step approach to language learning;
• provide benchmarks and points of comparison for learners, employers and providers.

The feasibility study began its work in December 2001, under the guidance of an expert steering group representing a range of sectors and relevant national bodies. The working title chosen for the framework was 'Learning Ladder for Languages' (LLL).

The report is now available in full. To download it, click on the link above.