Resurgence of Welsh Language Learning Among Adults

The Welsh language is experiencing a notable resurgence among adult learners, as evidenced by recent statistics from Y Canolfan Dysgu Cymraeg Genedlaethol, the National Centre for Learning Welsh. The number of adults enrolled in Welsh courses has increased by 12% over the past year, surpassing 20,000 for the first time. This growth follows a consistent upward trend since the program's inception in 2016, with a remarkable 61% increase since the 2017-18 academic year. Notably, nearly 40% of participants are motivated by workplace requirements, particularly in sectors like the NHS and police.

The Guardian

The demographic of learners is diversifying, with a significant rise in younger individuals aged 16 to 24, whose numbers increased by 56% in the 2024-25 period compared to the previous year. Elinor Staniforth, a 28-year-old from Cardiff, exemplifies this trend. After a transformative experience at Oxford University, she began learning Welsh online and now teaches the language. Similarly, Scott Gutteridge, a London-based actor originally from Llanelli, describes a "language reclamation" movement, highlighting the availability of resources and the vibrant Welsh arts scene as key motivators for new learners.

The Guardian

The adult learning experience is often described as more enjoyable compared to compulsory Welsh lessons in schools. Staniforth and Gutteridge both emphasize the importance of community and enjoyment in the learning process. Gutteridge, who participated in a residential course at Nant Gwrtheyrn, referred to it as "magical," underscoring the emotional and cultural connections that learners develop with the language.

The Guardian

Despite the positive trends, challenges remain for the future of the Welsh language. Staniforth points out a significant divide between school and adult learning, noting that considerably more children attend English-medium schools than Welsh-medium ones. She argues that fostering a genuine interest in the language among younger students is crucial for its survival. "Learning Welsh has to be enjoyable," she states, emphasizing the need for community engagement to keep the language vibrant.

The Guardian

Dona Lewis, the chief executive of Dysgu Cymraeg, expressed satisfaction with the growth in learner numbers, stating, "The statistics show consistent growth since we were established. There’s huge demand and we have a big contribution to make to the language in the future." Efa Gruffudd Jones, the Welsh language commissioner, has previously indicated that "bold and transformative" measures are necessary to meet the Welsh government's target of one million Welsh speakers by 2050.

The Guardian

• “I suddenly became very aware of being Welsh,” — Elinor Staniforth, Welsh Learner

The Guardian

• “He said: “It’s a fantastic time to start learning Welsh because there are so many resources available.” — Scott Gutteridge, Actor

The Guardian

• “Learning Welsh has to be enjoyable, because finding and creating a community, that’s what keeps the language alive.” — Elinor Staniforth, Welsh Learner

The Guardian

The resurgence of interest in learning Welsh among adults reflects a broader cultural movement, yet it also highlights the ongoing challenges in ensuring the language's future viability, particularly among younger generations.

The Guardian