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French, German And Spanish

FRENCH, GERMAN AND SPANISH

French is taught in Year 7, and pupils are subsequently offered the opportunity to study either Spanish or German from Year 8 alongside French. The current system rotates German and Spanish in Year 8, allowing pupils to commence their learning in the second language on offer in that particular year, from ab initio status up to the GCSE qualification and beyond if desired. AS and A2 French are available in the Sixth Form, and it is possible for pupils who have acquired knowledge and skills in Spanish and German to pursue the AS and A2 qualifications in the Sixth Form with guidance from MFL staff.

Students who speak a language other than English are given support to gain GCSE or AS Level qualifications. In recent years this has included Chinese, Japanese and Russian. Speakers of French, German and Spanish are put onto fast track courses, enabling them to take examinations early.

The language specialists teach in two dedicated classrooms, both containing audio-visual equipment, including stereo sound, VCR and television.

Lessons are interactive, encouraging the development of listening and speaking skills leading on to reading and writing. Lessons focus on a structured and supportive approach, designed to give students success, enjoyment and to raise their confidence levels.

ESOL

ESOL

Our international pupils quickly become part of the community at Kingham Hill.

These students, comprising up to 15% of the school, benefit from specially tailored teaching programmes in very small classes in the ESOL (English for Speakers of Other Languages) Department, in addition to a full academic curriculum.

Staff members draw on varied teaching methods to make classes interesting and lively. The atmosphere in the department is relaxed and supportive, yet expectations are high.

Our students work towards taking external ESOL examinations. These examinations are validated by the University of Cambridge Local Examinations Syndicate and include the FCE, CAE and IELTS examinations, which are recognised world wide. Students are also offered support for the mainstream curriculum.

Alongside the language courses and support time, students take part in social activities and educational trips. These experiences help students to sharpen their communication skills and link their use of language to the mainstream curriculum.