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Bilingual education overview

Students use English to interact, to understand science and to gain a Cambridge qualification.

There has been significant growth in the number of state and independent schools offering Cambridge programmes in a bilingual context. Cambridge is now collaborating with schools on bilingual education projects in countries such as Argentina, Bosnia, Croatia, Germany, Italy, the Netherlands, Spain, Sweden and Turkey (see case studies), and interest from schools in other countries is rising.

In every instance, Cambridge works in partnership with schools and ministries of education to ensure that Cambridge programmes fit in with national requirements.

What is bilingual education?

For us, 'bilingual education' refers to the practice of studying typical school subjects - like Geography and Maths - through a second or additional language. This understanding of bilingual education is linked to other educational concepts such as Content and Language Integrated Learning (CLIL) and dual-language education.

On a bilingual programme, students may study some subjects in their first language and other subjects in an additional language, or the same subject may be studied in two languages. Bilingual teaching methods can vary, but the flexibility of the Cambridge approach means that students can work towards a Cambridge qualification while following their own national curriculum.

Why choose Cambridge?

Flexibility: Schools can easily adapt the Cambridge curriculum to suit their needs. This means that schools with bilingual programmes can integrate Cambridge programmes alongside their national curricula.

International standards: Cambridge qualifications such as IGCSE and International A Level can fit in with a wide range of national curricula, and are internationally benchmarked and recognised by universities and employers worldwide. They are regularly reviewed to reflect current thinking in education.

External assessment: A variety of assessment options is available at different stages of the curriculum. This formal assessment helps direct students' learning, providing a record of attainment, an acknowledgement of their achievement through an additional language and a recognised passport for progression.

Global outlook: Cambridge programmes develop global awareness whilst increasing language proficiency.

Certificate for Teachers in Bilingual Education

A practice-based qualification for continuing professional development, the Cambridge International Certificate for Teachers in Bilingual Education delivers an immediate improvement in teaching and learning in bilingual educational contexts. A higher-level Diploma is also being developed.

Learn more!

If you would like to learn more about bilingual education and Cambridge, contact us.