ABOUT ISMLA

ISMLA – Championing Modern Languages in Independent UK and International Schools

The Independent Schools Modern Languages Association (ISMLA) is a dynamic network of language educators working together to promote, protect, and inspire excellence in modern foreign languages across the UK and beyond.

What We Do

  • Advocacy and Influence: A strong national voice, campaigning against severe grading in languages and working with the DfE, Ofqual, examination boards, and sector bodies (ALL, NALA, ISC, school leadership associations).
  • Partnerships: Building bridges between independent and state schools, supporting independent junior schools with smooth transition into senior schools, and forging international school partnerships and exchange opportunities.
  • Professional Development: An extensive programme including our annual national teachers’ conference, subject days, cluster meetings, and webinars, alongside specialist CPD networks (including our partnership with Francophonia).
  • University Links: Liaising with UK universities to grow uptake at A Level, support teacher training, and address the national languages crisis.
  • Inspiration and Outreach: Sponsorship of leading initiatives that bring languages alive – including the UK Linguistics Olympiad, Anthea Bell Prize for Young Translators, Hispanic & French Theatre Festivals, Joutes Oratoires, the Oxford German Olympiad and a wide range of inter-school projects.
  • Cultural & Industry Connections: Close collaboration with cultural institutes, providing platforms for dialogue with tour operators, exam boards, and providers of language resources and products through consultation and large-scale exhibitions.
  • Subject Representatives: Dedicated networks to enthuse, inspire, and share practice in French, German, Spanish, Italian, Russian, Arabic, and Mandarin
Learn more about the origins of ISMLA

Why join ISMLA?

  • Teachers and pupils already benefit from the competitions, festivals, and initiatives we sponsor – your membership directly supports and sustains this work.
  • Be part of a supportive community of practice that shares resources, advice, and inspiration.
  • Shape the future of language learning through direct policy conversations with government and national bodies.
  • Gain access to unique training opportunities – from the annual teachers’ conference to subject days, cluster meetings, and webinars.
  • Receive tailored support for your Language Department to help shape policy, strengthen curriculum design, and raise the profile of MFL within your school.
  • Connect with colleagues across the UK and internationally to celebrate and safeguard languages.
JOIN ISMLA NOW

Patrons

A S Pettitt, MA (Oxon), P B Hamilton, MA (Oxon), H Myers, BA (London), MA (Open), S A Corns,  MA (Cantab), FRSA, D J Byrne, MAm, MEd (Cantab), S Davidson, MA (Edinburgh), PGCE (Manchester), MEd (Birmingham)

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