Modern Foreign Languages
At St Columba’s College, we celebrate the rich diversity of languages and cultures. Speaking another language is a invaluable life-skill that we proudly promote. It presents an exciting academic challenge while unlocking a journey of exploration into the vibrant histories and cultures of countries around the world.
In Form 1, most of our students embark on a new adventure, swiftly immersing themselves in conversational Spanish and building a strong foundation in grammar and vocabulary. For those who choose to pursue GCSE study, we equip them with the skills to discuss various topics and express themselves fluently in written Spanish. Our mission is to educate the whole person, and we regularly host guest speakers, including successful Old Columbans who have made Spanish an integral part of their professional careers, such as law.
“One language sets you in a corridor for life. Two languages open every door along the way.” Frank Smith
In our French Department, we aim to ignite a passion for learning a new skill that goes beyond academic challenges and rigor. We seek to inspire students by exposing them to the diverse cultures and countless opportunities that come with being bilingual. As Ludwig Wittgenstein wisely noted, “The limits of my language are the limits of my world.” Through our French program, students not only develop linguistic proficiency but also gain a profound appreciation for different cultures. Whether they are engaging with literature, exploring the arts, or embracing the vibrant Francophone world, we empower our students to broaden their horizons.
MFL – French: Prep
At St. Columba’s Prep School, we believe in fostering a love for languages and encouraging our students to embrace the rich tapestry of cultures that the world has to offer. In the Lower Prep, our children have ‘World Cultures’ lessons. Our aim is that, through the World Cultures lessons and during their time in the Lower Prep, children will gain exposure to a wide range of languages and cultures that is truly reflective of our world. We hope that, through the enjoyment and engagement in these lessons, they learn to love language learning and begin to develop a rich appreciation for the background and lives of others. In Prep Three and Four, the children learn French and Spanish on a rotation and in Prep Five and Six the children participate in a carousel of French, Spanish and Latin.
A Progressive Curriculum
Throughout their time in Prep, our young linguists delve into a variety of engaging themes each term, expanding their vocabulary and language proficiency step by step. The Michaelmas, Lent, and Trinity Terms are filled with exciting topics that fuel their curiosity and linguistic growth.
Michaelmas Term:
- Greetings & conversational phrases
- Colours
- Numbers
- Animals
- Christmas
Lent Term:
- Clothes
- Eating & Drinking
- Shopping
- Easter
Trinity Term:
- Me & my hobbies
- My home and family
- In the classroom
- Holidays
Celebrating Language Achievements
We take great pride in celebrating the progress and accomplishments of our young French learners. Every year, Reception and Prep One students have the opportunity to showcase their language skills during our Lower Prep MFL Assembly. During this special event, the students impress their parents with captivating songs and vocabulary activities, confidently stating their names and ages in French and demonstrating their knowledge of the days of the week, counting, and various animals. Reception boys create delightful French flags and pictures of their favourite food, while Prep One students charm in typical French outfits.
French Café – A Delectable Experience
From Prep 3 through to Prep 6, our students immerse themselves in preparing for our annual French Café. During this event, they familiarize themselves with essential phrases such as “J’ai faim,” “j’ai soif,” “je voudrais,” “s’il vous plaît,” “Bon appétit,” and “vous désirez?” The French Café offers an exciting opportunity for students to practice their language skills in a fun and interactive environment, all while indulging in traditional French cuisine.
At St. Columba’s Prep School, we strive to make language learning a delightful and enriching experience for our students. Through our comprehensive French curriculum and engaging activities, we instill in them a lifelong passion for languages and an appreciation for global diversity.
