The initiative is outlined in Directive No. 21 issued by Hanoi People's Committee Chairman Vu Dai Thang on key tasks for the 2026-27 academic year.
Under the directive, the Hanoi Department of Education and Training will gradually expand the use of English in schools, shifting from teaching it mainly as a subject to using it for communication, learning, research and international engagement.
Schools will be encouraged to create environments where students can use English both inside and outside the classroom through activities such as English corners, English days, clubs, forums, public speaking, performances and project-based learning.
Students will also be encouraged to practise English regularly using digital learning materials, online platforms and artificial intelligence.
Eligible schools will pilot teaching selected content and activities in English, with the scheme introduced gradually to avoid putting pressure on students or widening disparities in access.
Schools will select suitable content based on the availability of qualified teachers, students' English proficiency, facilities and other conditions.
The education department will also work to improve foreign-language teaching and gradually establish an English-speaking environment in and outside classrooms, in line with a national policy aimed at making English a second language in schools.
By the end of 2025, 1,000 English teachers in Hanoi had received training aimed at improving their IELTS proficiency, while 100 teachers with the highest IELTS scores were selected for further training in Australia.
Teacher development is considered a key condition for expanding the use of English in schools beyond its traditional role as a standalone subject.
Hanoi is also promoting broader student development, with shared learning resources planned for physical education, arts, mental health, life skills and English-language learning.
Each school will incorporate comprehensive development into its education plan and adopt at least one model or initiative suited to its circumstances. Effective approaches will be assessed for possible wider adoption.
