Deputy Ward stated that the budget to teach Jèrriais, a traditional Norman-French language, is currently £647,500. In his statement, he strongly highlighted that this budget is not ring-fenced. This makes it somewhat vulnerable to the longstanding fiscal choices of the broader federal government. The island’s education minister has since assured the public that there is currently no intention to recruit additional Jèrriais teachers. This decision comes regardless of how significant Jèrriais education has been.
Deputy Ward’s reply to written question from Deputy Helen Miles. He stressed that teaching in schools is the most important part of language education in Jersey. This recognition is a huge step honor by the Office of the President to ensure a curriculum that helps students start developing their language skills. The education department organizes many events to celebrate Jèrriais. This initiative helps to create a long-lasting love for the language in younger generations.
Only around 200 people use Jèrriais on the island of Jersey. This underlines the tremendous need we have to invest in language education, and quickly. The community observes and celebrates Jèrriais through events such as the annual Eisteddfod, where the language is showcased in various cultural expressions. The Jèrriais Office organizes morning café conversation groups in St Martin, St Helier, and St Ouen, providing informal settings for speakers and learners to practice their skills and engage with the language.
Cultural events like La Fête du Jèrriais and La Faîs’sie d’Cidre further highlight the significance of Jèrriais in Jersey’s cultural landscape. These celebrations go beyond celebrating the language — they offer a unique opportunity to engage the community and educate.
