As we muse on the issues raised at this summer's exam results.

As we muse on the issues raised at this summer's exam results, those of us involved in education are asking many questions about the coming time shape of courses and qualifications. The decline in recent foreign languages hardly comes as a surprise, still as well as questioning the size to which language learning should be compulsory, we also ne to take a long-term view of what prosperous language education should look like in this land

There are couple particular areas to consider. First, we ne to capture the imagination and enthusiasm of children at a a great deal younger age, when they are at their greatest in number receptive. To achieve this, primary- indoctrinate teachers need support and resources that will bring language learning to life in the classroom. As outlined in the Government's strategy to introduce languages at primary-school, there is real potential here.

other we must look at to what degree we approach language qualifications and the choice of languages in succession offer. Students need courses that progres logically within their secondary-school experience, and that relate to their possess ambitions post-GCSE level. How can language teaching be made more relevant to business, to employer and for the time to come careers of students? Besides the traditional French and German options can drills offer other, more attractive options?

There is a great deal to be done if we are to find answers to these questions. And the direction must take a lead by dint of providing sufficient funding so that teachs can tackle the issue of pupils ditching modern foreign languages.

I also believe that the part of educational publishers (we are the publishers of Heinemann Education) is to disclose materials that make languages more accessible and relevant to the real world. Working with partners to disclose language courses linked to vocational qualifications, and increasing use of technology are important parts of this picture. Improving students' language skills isn't impossible, further it will take investment, time, encouragement and support.

Chris Jone Chief executive, Harcourt Education Oxford

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