“If you talk to a man in a language he understands, that goes to his head. If you talk to him in his own language, that goes to his heart” ‒ Nelson Mandela

Having the ability to understand and communicate in different languages is becoming increasingly essential in today’s world. The Modern Foreign Languages Department is a passionate team of subject specialists supporting and developing our students’ linguistic abilities in French, German and Spanish; as well as providing opportunities to explore Francophone, Germanic and Hispanic culture. Whether students choose to study a language to GCSE or beyond, learning a language provides transferable skills for leisure, life and future career opportunities.

We embrace a variety of opportunities enabling students to enhance their language learning experiences. This includes learning about customs, festivals and traditions in target language speaking countries and communities, Culture club, Pétanque club, opportunities for our 6^th Form linguists to support fellow language learners, students representing the MFL department at whole school events, and our annual ‘Languages Week’ which sees the whole school celebrating a variety of aspects relating to language and culture; with food proving to be particularly popular! We are currently exploring links with schools in France, Germany and Spain and have organised trips both in the UK and abroad; enabling our students to immerse themselves in language and culture.

Curriculum

Key Stage 3: Year 7 & Year 8 students study three hours of Spanish plus either three hours of German or French per fortnight.

By the end of Year 8, students decide which language they would like to continue with into Year 9. Some students decide to continue with both languages.

Key Stage 4: Students who study French, German or Spanish to GCSE level have five hours of lessons per fortnight, which includes time with one of our Foreign Language Assistants.

Key Stage 5: Students can continue to study French, German or Spanish to A-Level. They have nine hours of lessons per fortnight, which includes small group work and individual lessons with one of our Foreign Language Assistants.