This is an enthusiastic and successful department which prides
itself on its close links with France, Germany and Spain. It is led
by a Head of Languages, who is also Head of Spanish, a Head of
French and a Head of German. There are a further five members of
staff each of whom teaches two languages. Staff and students also
enjoy the contribution made by our Language Assistants who are
appointed on a yearly basis.
Students learn to communicate effectively in the foreign
language, gain an awareness of how the language functions and an
insight into the culture and civilisation of the country. Lessons
are enjoyable and stimulating: the emphasis from the start is on
creating an environment where students are encouraged to use the
language as a natural means of communication.
All students study French in Year 7. They may also begin German
or Spanish in Year 8. Many students, therefore, study two languages
until the end of Year 9 and must then continue at least one of them
up to GCSE. In practice, many students take two languages at
GCSE.
AS and A2 courses are offered in French, German and Spanish.
This year we have introduced a course in Mandarin as part of the
Sixth Form Curriculum Enrichment Programme.
Lessons take place in a suite of specialist rooms equipped with
CD/DVD players plus computer and data projectors in all rooms. The
Department also has a Sanako 100 language facility. A wide range of
audiovisual material is used to supplement teaching, including live
satellite broadcasts in French, German and Spanish. Every effort is
made to encourage interest in languages through visits, exchanges
and other language events.
Visit our individual language departments: