Wales is a bilingual country and it is therefore useful for children to grow up learning its native language. Many jobs are only available to candidates who can speak Welsh as well as English. Even people who do not speak it at work will find that, whilst living in Wales, having a basic knowledge of Welsh is helpful. Road signs are often written in Welsh, train announcements are pronounced in Cymraeg first and it's easier to engage with people if you have a basic grasp of the country's language.

Benefits of being bilingual

• Bilingualism can improve your competitiveness in the job market.

• Knowing a second language can open up new career opportunities.

• Bilinguals can earn more money.

• Being bilingual opens up social and cultural opportunities.

• Speaking another language gives you a new perspective.

• Speaking a second language improves problem-solving, multitasking and decision-making.

• Bilingualism can slow the effects of old age.