Modern Foreign Languages Department

These subjects are available in the Department of Modern Foreign Languages

Curriculum team aims and objectives

To enable pupils to develop the ability to use French, German and Spanish effectively for purposes of practical communication.
To develop an awareness of the nature of language and language learning, and to provide a foundation for further study work and leisure.
To offer insights into the culture and civilisation of French, German and Spanish speaking countries and to encourage positive attitudes to foreign language learning and a sympathetic approach to other peoples and ways of life.
To provide enjoyment and intellectual stimulation and to promote learning skills of a more general application.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I take two languages?

YES. If you currently do two languages you can continue to study both to GCSE level. You should choose German or Spanish in the language block and French from the FREE Option block.

2. If I am doing Spanish already but am finding it difficult, can I do the NVQ course?

NO. This course is designed for beginners, who have not studied Spanish before. It is only open to students who are NOT currently studying two languages.

3. Can I start a new language?

That depends. If you are currently studying two languages, you should continue to study one language at GCSE Level. If you do French only at present, you could decide to apply for a place to do NVQ Spanish.

4. I do two languages at present and am not sure which one to continue.

Firstly, talk to your teacher(s). She/he can advise you.

Secondly, if you are good at both your languages, you should seriously think about doing both next year. It is much easier to learn languages while you are young!

Thirdly, you should also remember that the German and Spanish are accelerated GCSE courses, so need to show appropriate commitment and application.

5. I do French only at the moment, but am thinking of doing NVQ Spanish.

How do I know if this course is right for me?Look at your recent profile. If you are already achieving Level 5 in French, you have the potential to achieve a good grade in GCSE French. Talk to your teacher and ask his / her advice.

Trips

The Modern Languages Department runs two trips to France, one in Varenne nd the other in Draveil.

The trip to Draveil is open to students in Y9 and 10. Students stay in a leisure centre located in Hove’s twin town. Details of the accommodation and its surroundings ca be found on the website: www.portauxcerises.fr

During the trip, students spend two days in Paris, go the Fontainebleau Chateau and culminates with a day in Disneyland. More details are available from Ms Vannucci, Room 112

Staff

Ms C Andrews: Curriculm Manager

Mr M Coe: Deputy Curriculum Manager i/c German

Ms S Bailey: French (with Spanish)

Ms E Fletcher: Modern Languages / Head of French

Ms F Pinder: Modern Languages / Head of Spanish

Mr A Sharp: French

Ms C Vannucci: French i/c of KS3 French