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A “far-reaching, truly historic” bill aimed at boosting the number of Welsh speakers has officially become law.

The Welsh Language and Education (Wales) Act aims to ensure all pupils become confident Welsh speakers by the end of compulsory school.

The bill, which received Royal Assent on Monday July 7, forms part of the Welsh Government’s ambition of reaching a million Welsh speakers by 2050.

At the Bill’s sealing ceremony, First Minister Eluned Morgan said: “The Welsh language belongs to us all.

“This Act builds on the excellent work already happening across Wales. It gives children and young people a better chance to become Welsh speakers, bringing us closer to our aim of one million Welsh speakers in Wales.”

The bill was unanimously backed by Senedd Members from across the political spectrum two months ago.

Finance minister Mark Drakeford, who has responsibility for the Welsh language, said the bill would open a new chapter in the history of Welsh education.

Under the bill, three school categories will be created – primarily Welsh; dual language; and primarily English, partly Welsh – with targets for each for a minimum of Welsh education.

The bill will also put the target of reaching at least a million Welsh speakers on a legal footing and establish the National Welsh Language Learning Institute.