Readers have responded strongly to a recent Guardian article questioning the value of Welsh-only teaching in schools. In letters to the editor, correspondents argue that bilingual education is a benefit, not a harm, and that the article reflects a narrow, colonial mindset.
Ffred Ffransis of Llanfihangel-ar-arth, Carmarthenshire, writes that the Guardian appears to be competing with other London publications to become the last bastion of English colonial rule. He notes that multilingualism is the norm worldwide, and that Welsh-medium education produces fully bilingual students who can access their cultural heritage and work in both languages. By contrast, English-medium education in Wales deprives most pupils of these benefits, he argues.
Elen Huws of Penygroes, Gwynedd, adds that more than half the world's population is bilingual, and studies prove the advantages of a bilingual brain. She says immersion works and that it is irresponsible for a modern education authority not to provide the means for pupils to become bilingual at a young age. She criticises the article for giving disproportionate attention to one family's grievances, and stresses the importance of parental support in a child's educational achievement.
