Over the last five years, the Welsh for Speakers of Other Languages (WSOL) provision at Adult Learning Wales has gradually grown from a small project into an established and well-recognised part of the organisation’s Welsh language offer.

The provision originally began through the AMIF project, with the aim of introducing Welsh to ESOL learners and helping people from a wide range of backgrounds feel more connected to the language and culture of Wales. What started on a relatively small scale has continued to develop year by year, with increasing learner interest and clearer progression routes into further Welsh learning.

One of the biggest developments came through the introduction of WSOL taster sessions within ESOL programmes and induction weeks. These sessions were developed following internal Action Research and were intended to give learners an informal and welcoming first experience of the Welsh language. Over time, they became an important way of encouraging learners to engage with Welsh, build confidence, and consider progressing onto full WSOL courses.

Further research and development later led to changes in the structure of the WSOL provision itself. It became clear that moving directly from WSOL courses into mainstream Welsh for Adults provision could feel like a significant step for many learners. In response to this, Adult Learning Wales developed a bespoke five-week Bridging Course which was incorporated into a redesigned 15-week WSOL model, extending the original 10 to 12 week format.

The Bridging Course was piloted with a group of WSOL learners, all of whom progressed successfully onto mainstream Dysgu Cymraeg Mynediad courses. This became an important milestone for the organisation, with Adult Learning Wales becoming the first provider in Wales to formally develop and embed a bridging approach of this kind within WSOL provision. Since then, other providers have looked to Adult Learning Wales for guidance and support in developing similar models.

One thing that has become increasingly clear over time is that the impact of WSOL goes well beyond simply learning a language. Tutors often speak about the confidence learners gain through the sessions, along with the friendships, sense of belonging, and stronger connection to Welsh culture that develops naturally within the groups.

Learners have responded particularly well to the relaxed and supportive atmosphere of the classes. For many, having the opportunity to practise spoken Welsh in an encouraging environment, alongside people from a wide range of backgrounds and experiences, has played a huge part in helping them feel comfortable and confident using the language.

More recently, the WSOL team itself has also continued to grow, allowing the provision to reach even more learners across Wales. Current courses have seen strong engagement throughout, with many learners already planning to continue their Welsh learning journey through Dysgu Cymraeg courses from September onwards.

Looking back, it is clear that WSOL has developed into far more than a standalone language project. It has become an important part of Adult Learning Wales’ wider commitment to inclusion, community learning, and widening access to the Welsh language. As the provision has grown, so too has its role in helping learners feel more connected to their local communities, Welsh culture, and everyday life in Wales.