Modern Foreign Languages

 

We are committed to making language learning a positive, enjoyable experience through a variety of teaching and learning activities. In Years 7 and 8, students study Spanish or French. In Years 9, 10 and 11 students can continue this language to GCSE or NVQ Level 2. In addition to this, we actively encourage and support students to undertake GCSE, AS and A2 examinations in their community language. We have recently had examination success in Mandarin Chinese, Polish, Urdu and Slovakian. 

What students gain:

• The ability to communicate effectively with others in Spanish / French
• Healthy attitudes of tolerance and understanding, plus a developed cultural awareness
• A heightened awareness of the structure of language, both native and foreign
• Valuable, transferable skills such as communication, problem solving, creativity, ICT, literacy, numeracy and performance
• Awareness of the structure of language, both native and foreign
• Knowledge of new cultural points of interest; music, festivals, traditions, food and literature
• Awareness of the benefits of language learning

 

How we teach:

In Years 7 and 8 teaching and learning focuses on building confidence, establishing firm foundations for further language study and enthusing and inspiring students through:

• Role play, puppet shows, presentations and songs
• Competitions using dice, mini white-boards, move cubes, beach balls, countdown timers etc.
• ICT, such as interactive white-boards, language learning websites and the Internet to enjoy Spanish / French media.

In Years 9, 10 and 11, we build on students' prior learning to ensure that they become competent linguists who can converse confidently, write at length in a variety of styles and understand both the written and spoken word in a range of contexts. We recognise the importance of independent study at GCSE and NVQ level and work closely with families to ensure that students can develop their language outside the classroom through MP3s, language learning CDs, websites, revision guides and attendance at GCSE Spanish Club.  

We are fortunate to have the support of a Foreign Language Assistant to develop students’ cultural awareness and conversational Spanish, both during Modern Foreign Language lessons and through enrichment activities after school.

 

Department Staff

Mr J. Armstrong	Curriculum Leader and Teacher of French
Mrs D. Burns	Advanced Skills Teacher and Teacher of Spanish
Mr H. Garcia Ostos	Teacher of French and Spanish
Mr A. Hussain	Teacher of Urdu
Mr S. Calveri	Teacher of French and Spanish
Miss I. Ramirez Liebana	Foreign Language Assistant