We aim to produce highly competent linguists who will be able to make the most of the opportunities available to them as citizens of the European Union and who will develop tolerance, openness and confidence based on a closer understanding of foreign cultures.

Both French and German are taught throughout the school. In Year 7 half the year group begins French and half begins German. The groups continue their first language in Year 8, where they also begin the second foreign language. They continue both in Year 9 and at the end of Key Stage Three must choose at least one for GCSE. There are currently 20 pupils studying German and 30 studying French in the Sixth Form and a significant number of these choose to continue their languages to degree level.

In all Key Stages, the emphasis in language lessons is on promoting success through enjoyment, clear target setting and independent learning. Pupils move from tasks based on copying paradigms and substituting information to more complex and adventurous expression. Rigorous reinforcement of grammar patterns aids accuracy and provides intellectual stimulation. Pair and group work is a central feature of lessons and encourages fluency and confidence. Lessons also incorporate tips on good study skills and all resources are selected for relevance and personal engagement. They include; self-study cassettes, magazines and comics, videos and films, reference materials, stories and poems and a wide range of ICT software.Pupils are offered individual support in lessons and have the opportunity to practise their skills on native speakers.

Enrichment activities offered include penfriend schemes with our partner schools in Saarbrucken and Riom, exchange visits, the annual poetry competition and visiting drama groups. In addition pupils are encouraged to enter for GCSE and A-Level examinations in their family languages, which have included: Arabic, Chinese, Punjabi, Polish, Russian, Spanish and Urdu.

For additional information relating to the topics taught in each year and useful websites,

please click here for French

or click here for German