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Starting next school year, secondary school teachers in Murcia will have to reach the C1 level in English to teach in bilingual classes. The change is part of a plan introduced three years ago to strengthen what officials now call the foreign language enhancement and immersion programmes in schools and institutes. Teachers were given a three-year transition period to reach the higher level, and that deadline is now fast approaching.
Hundreds of teachers have been studying to reach C1 so they can stay on the lists that allow them to keep teaching bilingual classes. So far, 874 secondary school teachers have already obtained the C1 certificate, and another 170 gained qualifications this year through training centres. Many others are studying at the Official School of Languages, where the number of teachers signing up for advanced English courses has increased in recent years.
According to language experts, the higher standard makes sense for teachers who are expected to teach subjects in another language. A B2 level already represents a good command of English, but many specialists say it can be challenging to confidently manage a full classroom discussion or explain complex topics at that level.
Still, unions warn that in some cases, schools struggle to find enough teachers with C1 level. Temporary staff with B2 certificates are sometimes hired to fill gaps, especially for substitute positions.
The changes do not apply to primary schools, where teachers will still only need a B2 level of English. In secondary schools, however, the language programmes are now divided into two levels: enhancement and immersion. In the enhancement option, students study around 30% of their timetable in a foreign language, usually English.
Schools that choose the more intensive immersion programme can teach at least 43% of subjects in English. Institutes that provide this higher level of language learning can also receive a special quality label that recognises the programme.
Meanwhile, students’ English standards have also improved in recent years. A decade ago, many students entering language schools started at B1 level, but today most begin at B2.
This improvement is expected to continue. From 2028, university students in the Region of Murcia will also need to prove they have at least a B2 level in a foreign language before they can graduate.
Read also: Sánchez to cap teaching hours for primary and secondary school teachers
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