Will the Cabinet Secretary explain why the Welsh Language and Education (Wales) Bill does not reflect the fundamental policy aim of the White Paper 'Proposals for a Welsh Language Education Bill' (paragraphs 11-13) regarding the timetable for every pupil reaching at least level B2 by the end of their statutory education, by 2050?
Section 11 of the Bill establishes Welsh language learning goals, based on the common reference levels, for the different categories of schools. As set out in the Bill's Explanatory Memorandum, the Welsh language learning goals for the categories will be:
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Language category |
Welsh language learning goal |
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Primarily Welsh Language |
That pupils are proficient Welsh language users, at least, by the time they cease to be of compulsory school age (C1 or C2 common reference level). The Table in Schedule 1 of the Bill describes the general characteristics of a proficient Welsh language user.
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Dual Language |
That pupils are independent Welsh language users, at least, by the time they cease to be of compulsory school age (B1 or B2 common reference level). The Table in Schedule 1 describes the general characteristics of an independent Welsh language user.
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That pupils reach the B2 common reference level for oral interaction (independent Welsh language user), at least, by the time they cease to be of compulsory school age, by a date specified by the Welsh Ministers by regulations.
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Primarily English Language, partly Welsh |
That pupils are basic Welsh language users, at least, by the time they cease to be of compulsory school age, until a date specified by the Welsh Ministers by regulations. The Table in Schedule 1 describes the general characteristics of a basic Welsh language user. In terms of the common reference levels relating to a basic Welsh language user, a school delivery plan under section 14(1)(f)(iii) will be expected to facilitate continuous improvement. If that is ensured, the expectation is that over time the vast majority of pupils will reach the A2 common reference level at least. |
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After that date, (i) that pupils are independent Welsh language users, at least, by the time they cease to be of compulsory school age (B1 or B2 common reference level). The Table in Schedule 1 describes the general characteristics of an independent Welsh language user.
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(ii) that pupils reach the B2 common reference level for oral interaction (independent Welsh language user), at least, by the time they cease to be of compulsory school age, by a date specified by the Welsh Ministers by regulations. |