MGS hosts ISMLA conference 2026

At the start of February 2026, The Manchester Grammar School hosted teachers from across the UK for the ISMLA Annual Conference.

The event brought together around 150 delegates and more than 40 exhibitors, creating a vibrant forum for professional exchange and fresh thinking in Modern Languages education. Colleagues joined from a wide range of schools, including Eton College, Rossall School, North London Collegiate School and Marlborough College, among many others — a strong reflection of the sector’s shared commitment to advancing the teaching and learning of languages.

The conference featured a keynote address from Sir Nick Gibb and contributions from several respected advocates for language learning. Discussions focused on the pivotal role independent schools can play in shaping the future of modern languages, highlighting opportunities to champion innovation, strengthen partnerships, and support sustainable progress across the discipline. We extend our sincere thanks to all speakers, exhibitors and delegates whose insight and enthusiasm made the day such a success.

Head of Modern Foreign Languages at MGS, Jessica Houghton, said: "It was an honour to host the annual ISMLA conference. We thoroughly enjoyed connecting with such a wide range of talented linguists across different sectors. It was particularly interesting to hear Sir Nick Gibb’s views on the strategic importance of language learning for young people in an increasingly digitised world. Our High Master spoke candidly about the value of languages as a core subject in the curriculum and his pride in the unique options system at MGS, which allows our pupils to pursue individual interests, such as studying multiple languages to a high level. We are also grateful to Adèle Venter and the ISMLA team for organising such a varied and energising programme."