Welsh language sees surging popularity among young adults

Cardiff native Elinor Staniforth's love for the Welsh language was reignited during her time at Oxford University. Realizing she had forgotten about her Welsh heritage after compulsory lessons in school, Staniforth began learning the language again in an online class shortly before the Covid-19 pandemic. Today, she's a finalist for the Cymraeg Learner of the Year prize at the 2024 national Eisteddfod and teaches the language herself.

Welsh language sees surge in popularity among young adults

New figures from the National Centre for Learning Welsh suggest Staniforth is far from alone in her rediscovery of the language. The number of adult learners taking courses with the centre has increased 12% in a year, reaching over 20,000 for the first time. This growth is particularly notable among younger learners, with the number of Welsh speakers aged 16-24 up 56% in 2024-25 compared to the previous year.

Experts attribute the surge in popularity to a 'language reclamation' among young people, driven in part by increased exposure to Welsh Culture and arts. London-based actor Scott Gutteridge, who grew up in Llanelli, credits the abundance of language resources and inspiring Welsh content for sparking his own interest in learning Cymraeg. 'It's a fantastic time to start learning Welsh because there are so many resources available,' he said.

While the uptick in adult learners is welcome news, the future of the Welsh language remains complex. Staniforth notes a 'big divide between school and adult learning,' with many more children attending English-medium education. To keep the language thriving, she emphasizes the importance of making learning Welsh enjoyable for all, whether through school, work, or community programs.