The skills of acquiring and using Modern Foreign Languages are central to our thinking. Languages are not only a means of practical communication, but are a valuable tool for further study. They help build a positive attitude towards the native speakers of the language and their culture and also foster empathy and teamwork.

Our language lessons focus on communication skills at the early stages and, as courses continue, we give equal weight to the four skills of reading, writing, speaking and listening. Course materials are up-to-date, with colourful textbooks, individual workbooks and audio-visual/ICT resources.

All students learn two Modern Foreign Languages at Key Stage 3. In Year 7 all pupils will study German, with either French or Spanish introduced in Year 8. At Key Stage 3 through to GCSE, the topics focus on home and school life; leisure and holidays; food and drink. The content of the A Level courses reflects the growing maturity of our pupils and encompasses the media, lifestyle choices, the environment and multiculturalism.

Lunchtime clubs have been introduced to give a taster of both Chinese and Russian. We also run ‘clinics’, where pupils can bring specific problems to a teacher or practise oral work. We organise trips to France and Germany, and our pupils are encouraged to take part in the Bristol-Bordeaux exchange. Finally, we arrange for our Year 12 students to attend the revision conferences organised by the University of the West of England. 

Click here for more information on the National Curriculum level descriptions at Key Stages 3 & 4.

Visit the Bristol Cathedral Choir School Languages Blog at http://bccslangsportal.blogspot.com/