Modern Foreign Languages (MFL)

Introduction 

In the Modern Languages Department, we believe that learning a language is enriching, intellectually stimulating and fulfilling. The skills developed in language lessons are highly sought after by employers and open the doors to opportunities in the UK and around the world. Our courses are designed to enable pupils to communicate effectively in their chosen languages as well as develop empathy and intercultural understanding. 

Lower School 

All pupils study two languages from French, German and Spanish in the Lower School.   Lessons focus on effective communication, interaction and enjoyment supported by a solid grounding in grammar and vocabulary. We provide opportunities for pupils to use the languages that they are learning both in and beyond the classroom in events such as the French Spelling Bee, the Bake off and the German lantern festival. 

Third Form 

In the Third Form pupils deepen their knowledge of their chosen languages as we start building towards the IGCSE curriculum. They will be able to engage with more challenging resources and be able to use the languages to express their own thoughts and ideas with increasing sophistication. For new entrants in the Third Form, there is the option of joining an accelerated programme for beginners in German and Spanish which will lead to IGCSE studies in the Fourth Form. 

GCSE (Middle School) 

Pupils’ language skills are further enhanced in the Fourth and Fifth Forms as they engage with the Pearson IGCSE qualifications in French, German, and Spanish. The productive and receptive language skills have equal weighting at IGCSE level and consequently pupils are given additional time with our language assistants to develop their confidence in the spoken language.  

A Level (Sixth Form) 

After completing the A level course, pupils will have developed a high level of fluency, and they will have sufficient language skills to either live or to work in another country. At A level pupils deepen their cultural and linguistic knowledge through a range of authentic resources. The study of society and culture is supported through the exploration of themes and ideas from contemporary film and literature. Many of our pupils go on to study modern languages at university level.  

Trips/Competitions/Societies 

Our commitment to developing oral skills is reinforced by our programme of visits and exchanges. Recent trips have included an exchange trip to Usingen in Germany, a Spanish and Surfing trip to Galicia, a trip to the German Christmas markets and a study tour to La Loire Valley in France.   

University & Careers 

We give specialised support to pupils who are aiming to study languages at university in small academic challenge seminars. We give pupils are given a taste of what it is like to study film, poetry and novels at university as well as receiving guidance about the application process. Lectures from external speakers help to challenge and to inspire pupils and we have a well-resourced library with a range of literature