What strategies do local schools or cultural programs use to maintain Catalan language skills despite tourism-driven language shifts?

Local schools and cultural programs in Catalonia employ a variety of strategies to preserve and promote the Catalan language amid the challenges posed by tourism-driven linguistic shifts. One fundamental approach is bilingual or immersive education, where Catalan is the primary language of instruction, even as students also learn Spanish and often English. This system ensures that children develop strong Catalan language skills from an early age, reinforcing its use as a living, functional language in everyday life. Schools frequently integrate Catalan literature, history, and the arts into their curricula, fostering a deep cultural connection and pride that motivates students to continue using the language.

In addition to formal education, cultural programs play a crucial role in sustaining Catalan linguistic heritage. These programs often organize workshops, festivals, and community events focused on traditional music, dance, and storytelling—all conducted in Catalan. Such activities not only celebrate the language but also provide immersive environments where both locals and visitors can experience Catalan culture in an authentic way. Local governments and cultural institutions have also invested in media initiatives, supporting Catalan-language television, radio, and online content, which helps maintain visibility and contemporary relevance for the language.

Tourism itself is sometimes harnessed as an opportunity rather than a threat. Efforts to include Catalan signage, information, and customer service in popular tourist areas serve a dual purpose. They encourage respectful linguistic diversity among visitors and bolster the everyday use of Catalan in commercial and public spaces. Furthermore, many local businesses collaborate with schools and cultural organizations to host language and cultural exchanges, offering tourists insights into Catalan traditions while reinforcing language practice within the community. By combining education, cultural engagement, media presence, and inclusive tourism policies, Catalonia works to safeguard its linguistic identity despite external pressures.