New Ukrainian GCSE to be Introduced Following Outcry Over Russian Language Prospects

Children from Ukraine were previously told they should study Russian for their GCSEs of which is a situation local MP Paul Waugh has condemned as, "unacceptable".

However, that hurdle is set to be removed. Starting in 2028, students in Rochdale and across the UK will be able to study Ukrainian for their GCSEs, with the first official exams scheduled for 2029 through the exam board AQA.

The policy shift comes after campaigners and local leaders highlighted the distress caused to displaced Ukrainian children who were directed toward Russian-language qualifications.

"Ukrainian child refugees in the UK were told to study Russian for GCSE as an alternative to Ukrainian", said Mr Waugh. "That situation is unacceptable for children who have fled Russia's war, which is why we're changing it".

The new AQA GCSE in Ukrainian will allow students to formally gain academic recognition for their native language while celebrating their cultural heritage within the British education system.

Rochdale is home to a thriving and active Ukrainian community, many of whom arrived following the full-scale Russian invasion in 2022. Mr Waugh expressed his admiration for the resilience and contribution of these families to the local area.

"I'm so proud to have such a brilliant Ukrainian community in Rochdale", Mr Waugh added, "and I'm glad to have helped make this possible for them".

The announcement has been welcomed by educators and community leaders, who view the new GCSE as a vital step in supporting the integration, mental well-being, and educational rights of Ukrainian youth living in the UK.