Language Acquisition
The school overhauled its approach to language learning a few years ago and developed a new policy accordingly. The overarching aim was to develop students as proficient users of a second language when they graduated. Embracing another language and culture is a central component of an international school education, promoting global citizenship and international mindedness.
Standard and Extended groupings ensure students are appropriately challenged and additional support clubs are in place for those starting out or anyone struggling. We are committed to ongoing language learning along all our pathways and our French and Spanish lessons are an important part of the curriculum. You will notice signage around the school in three target languages and I am grateful to native speakers in our community that have come in to support additional oral work.
It is great to see us offering language trips again and I am fortunate enough to have been drafted in as a last minute chaperone on the Spanish trip to Malaga. Everyone is hosted by a local family (including teachers!) and the high level of immersion will doubtless do wonders for the students' confidence. On our first morning students were proudly comparing stories of recent conversations with their hosts and they have a busy week of activities to develop further their talents. Unfortunately my Spanish is limited to vocabulary from Dora the Explorer and latterly Narcos. I studied French at school. However, my host is pushing me along and the value she places on language learning, and particularly the associated cultural understanding, is something of an inspiration. I am getting a cerebral work-out too.
Image: a paella the students made
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