Estonian English teachers oppose state funding cuts for Cambridge C1 exam

Over 100 English language teachers from across Estonia have sent a collective letter to the Minister of Education and Science, expressing concern over plans to end state funding for the international Cambridge C1 exam. The teachers argue the decision could negatively impact students' access to internationally recognised language certification.

More than a hundred English language teachers from various regions of Estonia have signed a joint appeal addressed to the Minister of Education and Science, voicing strong opposition to proposed plans to discontinue state funding for the Cambridge C1 Advanced exam.

The teachers argue that the Cambridge C1 qualification is a widely recognised international certificate that opens doors for Estonian students in higher education and on the global job market. Removing state support, they warn, could make the exam financially inaccessible for many students, particularly those from lower-income families.

The collective letter reflects growing anxiety in Estonia's education sector about budget decisions that could limit students' opportunities to demonstrate their language proficiency through internationally accepted qualifications. The Cambridge C1 exam is considered one of the most prestigious English certifications available and is accepted by universities and employers across Europe and beyond.

Teachers from different parts of the country united behind the appeal, signalling that concern over the proposed funding cuts is widespread rather than confined to a single school or district. The letter calls on the minister to reconsider the decision and maintain public funding for the exam.