Modern Foreign Languages
Head of Department: Mr N Bryson

Learning a modern foreign language at even the most elementary level facilitates direct access to another culture: this experience cannot be provided any other way. The ability to express oneself abroad and the joy and fulfilment thus afforded is uniquely achieved through language. It is for these reasons, among others, that all pupils study French and Spanish. French is one of the compulsory examination subjects at Common Entrance. Spanish, as a world language, has become important commercially and is spoken in most countries of Central and South America.

Spanish is introduced in Year 7 for one lesson a week and this continues in Year 8. In Year 9 the provision for Spanish is increased to two lessons a week; the same period of time allocated to French. All boys continue with French to GCSE (AQA) in Years 10 and 11, studying the language for four periods per week. Spanish, a GCSE (AQA) option, is also allocated four periods on the timetable.

Castillian ('lisped') pronunication is taught as well as the use of 'vosotros' verb forms; this is the norm in Spain. Exposure to the pronunciation used in southern Spain and in Latin America is provided regularly.

Full use is made of modern technology, the interactive whiteboard being a central feature of most lessons. Boys are encouraged to use computers and taught how to type accented letters and access French and Spanish proofing tools through the word processor. The Internet is exploited for cultural learning opportunities and research. Learning a language requires constant practice and each pupis needs to make a commitment to independent learning of vocabulary and grammar, with special attention to verbs.