At home abroad

Sir, Studying a foreign language is not about “a worthwhile outcome at exam” (letter, Sept 7), but about living in a European society without feeling at a disadvantage in a world where very many people travel, live or work abroad.

I shall never forget the feeling of ignominy and shame on my first visit to friends in Copenhagen. I spoke no Danish, but at a dinner party on my first evening all eight Danes spoke not only excellent English, but most had adequate French, German, French and/or Spanish. I felt ill-educated, even with an honours degree and 30-odd years’ experience in education.

Facility in other languages should not be considered a privileged option for “the brightest students” to gain another exam result, but a vital part of our education and preparation for day-to-day competence, living in a modern society.