Strategic management of Welsh language training on a macro and micro level

Abstract

ABSTRACT This paper presents a detailed analysis of how Welsh language training in the public sector workplace in north Wales is planned and delivered. Specific attention is given to the effectiveness of strategic management on both the macro level (Welsh Government, Welsh Language Board/Welsh Language Commissioner) and the micro level (individual public sector organisations) of language planning respectively. In doing so, key aspects of language training preparation, implementation and management are evaluated. This includes both qualitative and quantitative data collected from the language learners themselves. This data provides a unique picture – never seen before in Wales – of Welsh language training on an operational and strategic level in three different organisations in terms of size, sector, and geographical location. At a time when a new national body has been established by the Welsh Government to offer strategic guidance and management of Welsh language training for adults the findings throw new, and timely, light on the strategic planning and implementation of Welsh language training. Clear weaknesses are identified both within workplaces in the way in which language training is planned at a micro level, but also at a macro level in terms of how legislation and national policy is implemented and monitored.