Learning a language enhances our personal and professional lives. Not only does it open up opportunities in the international job market, but it improves communication skills inside and outside the workplace. By offering insight into a different way of life, ranging from literature to cuisine, language students develop both social and academic competencies. Linguists gain an understanding of diversity and cultural appreciation and enjoy an enriched travelling experience. Moreover, studying a language supports the development of memory skills, builds confidence and, looking towards the future, improves employability.
At GCSE and A-Level in French, Spanish, Italian, German and Mandarin, students learn about individual lives, communities and other cultures. Countries are explored through a wide variety of media and the necessary grammar capabilities are fully underlined to foster fluent and expressive communication. The student develops analytical, communicative, planning and reasoning skills learning to situate themselves in another perspective. Modern Foreign Languages (MFL) consequently develops confidence, resilience and drive.
“Communication, progress and expanding your own horizons – that’s what learning languages is about.”
We teach students from primary school age to university level. For children who need extra support to develop their confidence, we have patient primary or secondary specialists on hand to help. For students with a passion for French, Spanish, Italian, German and/or Mandarin, we have experienced GCSE, A level and University teachers to take them beyond the exam specification.
We conduct an initial assessment to understand each student’s strengths and areas for development. We use interactive online games and memory tests to develop the student’s vocabulary, and knowledge of grammar and tenses. This lays the foundations for more complex MFL topics so that students are prepared for GCSE or A Level exams.
We have experienced teachers with knowledge of the following exam boards:
At Key Stage 5, we also provide subject specialists for Cambridge Pre-U courses. We help tutors to stay up-to-date with curriculum changes and new grading systems. In addition to teaching, many of our tutors are also GCSE or A level examiners.
We encourage students to have a wider appreciation of MFL. Students considering an MFL undergraduate degree should be aware of relevant news stories and current affairs for the country they are studying.
Book – Decolonising the Mind: The Politics of Language in African Literature by Ngugi wa Thiong’o