PLN vs Language angels: Which Is the Better Choice for Primary Languages?
Choosing the right primary languages provider is essential for delivering high-quality MFL (Modern Foreign Languages) lessons in primary schools. Two of the most widely used platforms in the UK are Primary Languages Network (PLN) and Language Angels. Both offer strong resources—but if you're looking for in-class support, confidence-building for non-specialists, and curriculum continuity, PLN stands out.
Let’s compare the two across key areas.
Curriculum Design & Progression
PLN
✅ Fully mapped to the National Curriculum
✅ Clear long-term planning and progression pathways
✅ Content spans from Early Years to Year 6
✅ Term-by-term structure makes it easy for schools to follow and track progress
Language Angels
✅ National Curriculum coverage
✅ Three levels (lessons by difficulty, not year group), which can cause uncertainty over progression
⚠️ Teachers need to manually decide where their class fits within the system
Advantage: PLN — Better year-by-year structure and clearer long-term curriculum.
Support for Non-Specialist Teachers
PLN
✅ Video2Teach2: A virtual language specialist leads the lesson alongside the teacher
✅ Built-in training videos, CPD opportunities, and classroom demonstration content
✅ Lesson support builds teacher confidence over time
Language Angels
✅ Includes PowerPoints and audio files
⚠️ No on-screen teacher or live demonstration—teachers must interpret and deliver independently
Advantage: PLN — Non-specialist teachers feel supported and less overwhelmed.
Engagement & Pupil Interaction
PLN
✅ Uses interactive videos, native speaker pronunciation, songs, games, and printable activities
✅ Mix of digital and printable materials for diverse learning experiences
✅ Videos show real people, increasing authenticity and connection
Language Angels
✅ Digital games, karaoke-style songs, and interactive quizzes
⚠️ Less visual diversity—some repetition of characters and tools
Advantage: PLN — More authentic, varied content supports different learning styles.
Language Options
PLN
✅ French, Spanish, and German
✅ Schools can choose to switch languages year-to-year with curriculum continuity
Language Angels
✅ French, Spanish, and Italian
⚠️ Italian support is limited compared to the depth offered in French and Spanish
Draw — Depends on whether Italian is essential; otherwise PLN is more in-depth.
Ease of Use & Platform Experience
PLN
✅ User-friendly VLE with clear lesson order
✅ Resources structured around weekly planning
✅ Teachers can “press play and teach”
Language Angels
✅ Dashboard and downloadable resources are easy to access
⚠️ Some users find the structure less intuitive, particularly when choosing levels
Advantage: PLN — Especially for teachers who want simplicity and reliability.
Pricing & Value
PLN
✅ Transparent school-wide pricing
✅ Access to all languages and CPD included
✅ Excellent value for small and large schools alike
Language Angels
✅ Competitive pricing and a free trial
⚠️ No in-lesson video support; CPD and training cost extra or are limited
Advantage: PLN — More holistic support included in the core package.
Final Verdict
Both platforms offer useful tools—but if you're a school looking for full support, confident delivery by any teacher, and curriculum clarity, Primary Languages Network offers far more than just resources. With real language specialists guiding your lessons, strong progression, and full teacher support, PLN helps schools not only deliver MFL but do it brilliantly.