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Language
Guernsey patois is based on Norman French, but like many regional dialects, it is in danger of dying out. Generally only older residents and a handful of enthusiasts still use the language. Until the Second World War, English was hardly spoken but the evacuation of half of the island's population to England ended centuries of tradition. Many children returned to Guernsey not knowing the patois.
A number of books and a dictionary have been published together with tape recordings. Some would like to see the language taught in schools, but so far this has not been practical. However Guernseyman Keith Le Cheminant wants to change all that and has been in touch with Headmaster Ron Depres at La Hougette Primary school. Mr Depres has said that he is willing for the school to pilot a Guernsey patois course outside of normal school lessons. The organisation Les Ravigotteurs has been putting together a syllabus for children aged eight to ten.
Mr Le Cheminant believes that less than 1,000 people now speak the native tongue and most are over fifty apart from himself and a couple of others. The College of Further Education at one stage ran a course on the patois but was cancelled due to low numbers. The Scots and Welsh have gone to considerable lengths to keep their languages alive and he believes that Guernsey should do likewise. Ultimately only teaching in schools would turn the situation around. See his thoughts on L’éspérance et le désepé
Local street names and family surnames are evidence of the island's Norman French roots but increasingly only English names are used which is a great shame as part of our heritage is being lost forever.
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