Welsh Language Experiences a Remarkable Resurgence Driven by Adult Learners
The Welsh language, known as Cymraeg, is witnessing a significant revival, largely propelled by a growing number of adult learners who are reconnecting with their cultural heritage. New data reveals that enrollment in Dysgu Cymraeg courses has surged by 61% since the 2017-18 academic year, reaching over 20,000 participants for the first time. This uptick comes amid concerns about the language's vulnerability, highlighting a grassroots movement that is breathing new life into Welsh linguistic traditions.
Personal Journeys from Disinterest to Passion
Elinor Staniforth, a 28-year-old from Cardiff, exemplifies this trend. She initially disliked Welsh lessons during her school years and largely forgot the language after her GCSEs. However, her experience at Oxford University, where she became acutely aware of her Welsh identity among a predominantly English student body, sparked a desire to relearn Cymraeg. During the Covid pandemic, she began taking online classes and eventually became a finalist for the Cymraeg Learner of the Year prize at the 2024 national Eisteddfod. Staniforth now teaches Welsh herself, describing the adult learning experience as transformative. "I found the classes for adults an amazing experience. I made such good friends, I learned about Welsh culture, I discovered new bands and books, a new world," she said.
Statistical Growth and Demographic Shifts
According to Y Canolfan Dysgu Cymraeg Genedlaethol – the National Centre for Learning Welsh – the number of adult learners has increased by 12% in the past year alone. This growth is consistent since the program's inception in 2016. Key demographic trends include:
- Nearly 40% of learners are motivated by workplace requirements, with strong uptake in sectors like the NHS and police.
- Younger learners aged 16 to 24 have seen a 56% increase in enrollment for the 2024-25 period compared to the previous year.
- The percentage of learners from diverse ethnic backgrounds has risen from 1% to 5%, reflecting broader cultural engagement.
Dona Lewis, chief executive of Dysgu Cymraeg, expressed optimism: "We are really pleased with the numbers; 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."
Cultural Reclamation and Community Building
Scott Gutteridge, a 29-year-old actor based in London who grew up in Llanelli, describes the current movement as a "reclamation" of the Welsh language. He attributes the surge to increased accessibility of resources and a renewed interest in Welsh arts. "It's a fantastic time to start learning Welsh because there are so many resources available. It seems like a fire that's burning again, there's a lot more young learners," Gutteridge noted. He highlighted the poetic nature of Cymraeg as a key attraction, saying it resonates deeply with learners seeking cultural connection.
Gutteridge's own journey began during a bilingual production of Romeo and Juliet, leading him to evening studies and practical application at work. He fondly recalled a residential course at Nant Gwrtheyrn, the Welsh language heritage centre on Gwynedd's Llŷn peninsula, as "magical." "I like learning anyway, but Cymraeg has an added element for me. It's good for the mind, good for the heart, good for the soul," he added.
Challenges and Future Prospects
Despite the encouraging growth, challenges remain. The Welsh language commissioner's latest report indicates that while speaker numbers have stabilized, they have not kept pace with population growth, posing risks to long-term sustainability. Efa Gruffudd Jones, the commissioner, has called for "bold and transformative" interventions to meet the government's target of one million Welsh speakers by 2050.
Staniforth pointed out a "big divide between school and adult learning," noting that many children attend English-medium schools where Welsh instruction may not be engaging. "If you learn a language you have to want to do it: asking an 11-year-old to do it when they have no interest in it will be challenging," she explained. She emphasized that enjoyment and community are crucial for keeping the language alive, a sentiment echoed by learners who find adult classes more rewarding than compulsory school lessons.
The learner base is diversifying, with participants including English and Scottish relatives of children in Welsh-medium education, international migrants from places like eastern Europe and Japan, and online learners from the US and Australia. This broad engagement underscores the global appeal of Welsh culture and the importance of inclusive learning environments.
As the Welsh language continues to evolve, the dedication of adult learners offers a hopeful path forward, blending tradition with modern educational approaches to ensure Cymraeg thrives for generations to come.
