Policy and Politics in Global Primary English

Janet Enever explores the complex forces that shape national

and local language education policymaking for the early

introduction of English as a foreign language at primary and

pre-primary levels worldwide. This is the first book of its

kind demonstrating the extent to which English is now

perceived as a prerequisite for participation in the global

economy, reflecting the rapid development of early start

English now exploding across Asia, Latin America, and other

fast-growing economies.

“This is a timely and important book. Professor Enever

demonstrates comprehensive knowledge of primary English

policy and practice in a range of countries and, from a sound

theoretical framework, draws together evidence to show

how policies are all too often guided by short-term political

considerations rather than sound educational practice.

Whilst critiquing inappropriate practice, she also analyses

the conditions which have the potential to lead to quality –

and equitable – English language programmes at the

primary level.”

David Hayes, Department of Applied Linguistics,

Brock University, Canada