Modern Foreign Languages - Hurstpierpoint College

Modern Foreign Languages

The ability to communicate effectively in a language other than your own is of increasing importance in today’s world. The Modern Foreign Languages (MFL) department helps students to build on, deepen and broaden the knowledge of languages they already have. It also sets out to engender an enthusiasm for language that will encourage students to achieve the highest levels of academic success as well as giving them important skills which they can use outside school and throughout their lives.

Courses

In the Sixth Form, we offer French and Spanish A-levels, and follow the AQA specification. Both courses provide an exciting opportunity to study a subject that has relevance stretching far beyond the classroom. Emphasis is on practical communication and we provide a sound base of grammar, an insight into culture and civilisation, an awareness of the structure of the language and, most importantly of all, enjoyment and intellectual stimulation. Students will gain a high level of fluency, allowing them to communicate in formal and informal situations – from studying literature and film to an in-depth understanding of the country’s politics, values and history.

Teaching is delivered in a lively and communicative way to ensure that pupils can understand spoken and written language and express themselves confidently. Grammar is taught alongside active communication skills so that pupils have the tools to use language creatively and accurately. Much of the teaching is conducted in the target language and we are fortunate to have native speaking language assistants who help us with preparation for the oral examinations.

Facilities and resources

Spanish teacher on stage presentingIn addition to traditional text books, considerable use is made of audio and video resources from the internet along with authentic materials from other sources. Our language-based classrooms are all equipped with interactive whiteboards. Students are also encouraged to make use of new technologies in the production of their work.

The department aims to provide annual visits, home-stays and exchanges in order to promote and consolidate language learning along with an insight into culture and history.

Higher Education and career opportunities

Students will come away from language courses with a qualification that is highly regarded in terms of its academic rigour, but which will also broaden their future work and travel horizons. Many language students develop their love of languages even further throughout the Sixth Form, with a good number choosing to read them at university.

Teaching is a natural career path, but having a language can also open doors to a wealth of exciting ventures including: translation and interpretation; editing, proofreading and publishing; the travel, tourism and hospitality sectors; foreign service; international organisations, and other international careers.