October 2001-July 2002
A Learning Ladder for Languages

The Nuffield Inquiry argued for the development of "a unified national standards framework for languages, based on the Council of Europe model…which would introduce coherence and transparency into the system" (Languages: the next generation, p28). This national framework "should be couched in terms which are intelligible to non-specialist users, and should in particular be flexible enough to recognise partial competences and the small steps of achievement at beginner level" [idem, p77].

In October 2001 a study was commissioned into the feasibility of developing such 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 working title chosen for the framework was 'Learning Ladder for Languages' (LLL).

Following an audit of existing language qualifications, 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.
It pursued the following objectives:

• review previous UK and European experience in this field, in order to assess the continuing validity of the graded objectives idea;
• map the extent to which the need for 'step by step' recognition in the UK, particularly at the beginner and intermediate levels of competence, is met by existing schemes;
• assess the extent to which a graded objectives scheme could/should relate formally to existing qualifications structures, or should be free-standing and distinctively different;
• assess likely levels of support from key organisations in the field of assessment and accreditation, from teachers, and from potential sponsors outside education;
• propose a model or alternative models if such a scheme is judged to be desirable and feasible.

The final report of the study is available for download by clicking on (learning_ladder.pdf).

*The members of the Steering Group were
Peter Boaks
Hilary Footitt
Alwena Lamping
Anne Looney
Chris Maynard
Alan Moys (Chairman)
Brian Page
Pauline Swanton