Boys begin their language learning at Aldwickbury in Year 1. From the start it is the aim of the department to make language learning stimulating, engaging and fun.
Whilst we strive for boys to reach academic excellence, one can argue that this will not be achieved if a boy does not enjoy or is not interested in what he is learning. It is the aim of the department to provide motivating and diverse language lessons using as wide a range of methods as possible.
As well as working on the four main skills, listening, speaking, reading and writing, we also aim to enrich the boys language learning experience by using other materials such as: ICT, DVDs, reading books, authentic cassettes etc.
When boys come to French and Spanish lessons, we believe that they should be “swimming in a linguistic bath”.
It is our aim to enthuse the boys into developing a love for languages and the culture and, in encouraging them to be independent learners, making them inquisitive about their language learning.
In Year 6 boys start learning Latin and in Year 7 they take part in a trip to Paris and begin learning Spanish. This is with a view to them taking either the Common Entrance exam or the Certificate of Achievement at the end of Year 8.
