What can we expect of an early start to foreign language learning in Europe today?

Abstract

In the light of the global trend towards an ever-earlier start to foreign language learning, this paper summarises current knowledge on pre-primary provision for early language learning in Europe, highlighting the challenges of equitable provision for this non-compulsory education sector. The discussion draws on data evidence from the ELLiE study (2006–2010) to propose that much remains still to be done in terms of quality provision even in those countries with a compulsory start age of six or seven years.