What Is GCSE Welsh Language?

If you're a student in Wales, chances are you've heard about GCSE Welsh Language. But what exactly does it involve, and do you actually have to take it? 

This guide breaks down everything you need to know about what GCSE Welsh Language is. It explores the different courses available, how you're assessed and why it matters for your future.

Key Takeaways

• GCSE Welsh Language is a compulsory subject for all students in Wales. You'll take either First Language or Second Language depending on your school

• From 2025, a new combined GCSE in Welsh Language and Literature (called GCSE Iaith a Llenyddiaeth Gymraeg) is replacing the current First Language qualification

• The course tests four main skills: listening, speaking, reading, and writing in Welsh

• Welsh language skills can open doors to careers in education, healthcare, government, and other sectors in Wales

Do You Have to Take GCSE Welsh Language?

Yes. All students in Wales must take GCSE Welsh Language. It sits alongside English, Maths, Science, and other core subjects.

Your school decides which version—First Language or Second Language—you sit. Students in Welsh-medium or bilingual schools usually take it as a First Language, as Welsh is their main language of learning. Students in English-medium schools take it as a Second Language qualification.

Both versions count toward your GCSEs, and both are recognised by further education providers and employers.

First Language vs Second Language: What’s the Difference?

The two qualifications serve different groups of learners and set different expectations.

GCSE Welsh First Language

This course is for fluent Welsh speakers or students taught mainly through Welsh. You analyse literature, write extended essays, and discuss complex ideas. The level is similar to GCSE English Language and Literature combined.

From 2025, Welsh First Language and Welsh Literature merged into a single course called Cymraeg Language and Literature (opens in a new tab). This is now the main qualification in Welsh-medium and bilingual schools.

GCSE Welsh Second Language

This qualification is for learners who study Welsh as one subject within an English-medium education. It focuses on practical communication skills. Students work on everyday conversation, writing short pieces, and reading accessible texts.

From 2025, Second Language was replaced by a new Core Cymraeg GCSE (opens in a new tab) designed for English-medium learners. It makes learning Welsh more engaging and meaningful. There is also an Additional Core Cymraeg (opens in a new tab) qualification for students who want to progress further.

What Does GCSE Welsh Language Involve?

Both qualifications assess listening, speaking, reading, and writing. Though, the level of complexity differs.

Listening

You listen to Welsh in different contexts—dialogues, interviews, announcements—and answer questions. Second Language tasks use straightforward language. First Language requires understanding of idioms, abstract ideas, and complex structures.

Speaking

Speaking assessments involve responding to prompts, giving short presentations, and taking part in discussions. Second Language learners talk about everyday topics or complete simple role-play tasks. First Language students express detailed opinions and respond to more demanding themes.

Reading

You read articles, fiction, adverts, blog posts, or other texts. Second Language assessments focus on picking out key facts. First Language students analyse tone, style, and deeper meanings. This includes extracts from Welsh literature.

Writing

Writing tasks ask you to communicate for real audiences and purposes. Second Language learners might write emails, short descriptions, or simple opinion pieces. First Language writing includes essays, creative writing, and analytical responses.

Themes often include Welsh culture, daily life, relationships, and environmental issues. It can also include future plans, and current affairs.

How Is GCSE Welsh Language Assessed?

Assessment includes spoken tasks completed in class and written exams taken at the end of the course.

Speaking, Listening and Analysis 

Teachers record these non-examination assessments. You might take part in group discussions, respond to images, or present on a familiar theme. In Second Language, speaking and listening often make up around half your final grade, in First Language, about 40%. First Language demands greater fluency and accuracy and involves more complex tasks - including written NEAs.

Reading and Writing Exams

You sit written papers that test comprehension, translation, and extended writing. Second Language exams include short translations, guided writing tasks and creative writing. First Language exams require analysis of literature and longer essays. The weighting of each paper depends on the specification and whether single or double award in First Language.

Why Take GCSE Welsh Seriously?

Even if Welsh is not your first language, taking the qualification seriously has clear benefits.

It’s compulsory—so turn it into an opportunity

Since you must study Welsh, try to gain as much from it as possible. Bilingual skills are valuable in Wales and can help you throughout your education and working life. Check out our university advice for more information.

It helps with careers in Wales

Many employers now seek or prefer Welsh speakers. Jobs in teaching, healthcare, public services, and government often need staff who can speak with Welsh-speaking communities. Private companies also value bilingual employees. As the Welsh Government continues to support its Cymraeg 2050 (opens in a new tab) strategy, demand will only grow.

It strengthens cultural knowledge

Studying Welsh connects you with the culture and identity of Wales. It also shows universities and employers that you are open-minded, engaged, and committed.

It offers clear progression routes

GCSE Welsh can lead to A Levels, university degrees, or training in translation, interpreting, or teaching. Even if you do not plan a language-based career, strong Welsh skills keep more doors open. Our article on how many GCSEs to take for university will give you more detail, as will our article on the best GCSE combinations.

Still undecided? Our article on how to choose your GCSEs will help.

How to Prepare for GCSE Welsh Language

Success comes from steady practice across all four skills.

Practise speaking often

The best way to gain confidence is to speak regularly. Join in discussions during lessons, answer questions out loud, and ask friends or family to talk to you in Welsh when possible. Even short conversations help build fluency. Welsh learning apps and online tools can also support pronunciation and confidence.

Use Save My Exams past papers

Past papers help you understand the structure of the exam, the style of questions, and the level of detail expected. Save My Exams provides a bank of past papers and mark schemes, for you to use. Working through papers under timed conditions helps build exam technique.

Build vocabulary through reading and media

A strong vocabulary improves every skill—listening, speaking, reading, and writing. Flashcards are especially useful. Reading Welsh news on BBC Cymru Fyw (opens in a new tab), browsing magazines, and following Welsh-language social media accounts help you get used to everyday Welsh. Watching S4C or listening to Radio Cymru improves your listening skills and exposes you to different accents.

Ask for feedback from your teacher

Your teacher can help you identify patterns in your errors and improve your writing and speaking. Ask for feedback on practice essays, short writing tasks, and recorded speaking exercises. Guidance on fluency, grammar, and vocabulary range will help you make progress.

Save My Exams’ Welsh language revision resources are here to help. 

Frequently Asked Questions

What grade do I need in GCSE Welsh to continue to A Level?

Most sixth forms ask for a grade C or above in Welsh Second Language. Students who take First Language may be directed toward Welsh Language and Literature at A Level (opens in a new tab). You should also consider whether you enjoy the subject. A Level Welsh requires more independent reading and deeper engagement with the language.

What if I’m not fluent in Welsh?

Many GCSE Welsh Second Language students are not fluent. The course is designed for learners. You can succeed by practising vocabulary, using Welsh often, and seeking help when needed. The new 2025 qualifications will be even more accessible and focused on real-world communication.

Can I take both First and Second Language?

No. Your school enters you for the qualification that matches your background. Welsh-medium schools prepare students for the new Cymraeg Language and Literature. English-medium schools prepare students for the new Core Cymraeg Second Language. 

Final Thoughts

GCSE Welsh Language is a major part of education in Wales. Whether you speak Welsh every day or are still getting used to it, the qualification helps you develop valuable skills. The updated courses from 2025 support all learners.

If you practise regularly, build vocabulary over time, and ask for feedback, you will develop confidence across all four skills. Progress in language learning can feel slow. But each conversation, reading task, and writing exercise helps you improve.

Welsh is an important part of life in Wales, and speaking it can open doors in education, work, and everyday life. With steady preparation and a positive approach, you can get the most from your GCSE Welsh Language course and build skills that will benefit you long after the exam.

References 

• First Language Specification (opens in a new tab)

• WJEC GCSE Core Cymraeg (opens in a new tab)

• WJEC Level 2 Award in Additional Core Cymraeg (opens in a new tab)

• Cymraeg 2050: A million Welsh speakers (opens in a new tab)

• Newyddion a mwy - BBC Cymru Fyw (opens in a new tab)

• Welsh Language and Literature at A Level (opens in a new tab)