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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.

Prep French

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:

  1. Greetings & conversational phrases
  2. Colours
  3. Numbers
  4. Animals
  5. Christmas

Lent Term:

  1. Clothes
  2. Eating & Drinking
  3. Shopping
  4. Easter

Trinity Term:

  1. Me & my hobbies
  2. My home and family
  3. In the classroom
  4. 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.

Senior MFL

Modern Foreign Languages: Senior

Course Description

Our learners are exposed to a wide range of exciting topics in both French and Spanish, from useful language they will need to communicate in another country to learning about the culture, history and geography of other countries. From their first lesson, we aim to give them the confidence to be able to build their own sentences and the curiosity to find out more about the many places in which their language is taught and spoken.

Curriculum Overview

Year 7 and 8

Our schemes of work seek to provide the best possible support for GCSE study, with a strong emphasis on effective grammar teaching, so that the students quickly gain confidence and are able to manipulate the language. We follow the Dynamo course in French and Viva in Spanish. Students are taught in 3 x 50-minute lessons per week in mixed-ability groups with one teacher. On entry to the College, they choose one language from French or Spanish so that learning time is maximised in that language.

Years 9, 10 and 11

In Year 9, the students begin GCSE study using the AQA course, which is supported by the Studio and Viva online courses. We teach two sets in each language, organised by ability. Although students in both sets are strongly encouraged to continue their study of languages, those in the Advanced set are obliged to do so. In Year 10 and 11 we retain two sets in each language, this time organised by option blocks. In each year, the students attend 3 x 50-minute lessons, taught by one teacher.
We offer a range of exciting learning opportunities outside the classroom, including ICT-based quizzes, European Culture clubs and study trips to both France and Spain which are usually over-subscribed.

French

The French Department aims to enthuse students, not only with a passion for the challenges and academic rigour of learning a new skill, but also with an appreciation for the different cultures and opportunities available to speakers of more than one language.
From Form 1, we give students a solid grounding in grammar and vocabulary, enabling them to communicate confidently with French speakers. More than this, though, we seek to inspire a love of languages that will last a lifetime.

At GCSE, we build swiftly on the firm foundations laid in Key Stage 3, developing ever more sophisticated vocabulary for speaking, reading and writing about topics such as sports, technology and travel. This allows the students to achieve excellent examination results and to hone skills that will serve them in the future. While only a few of our students may wish to become translators, interpreters or teachers, we aim to give them all the communication skills needed to link French to their other strengths, making them highly marketable in a rapidly-changing world.

The limits of my language are the limits of my world.  Ludwig Wittgenstein

Our A Level linguists are immersed in native-level topics, books and films and the majority go on to study languages as part of their degrees. At every level, our aim is to help the students reach their own best standard in a skill which remains in demand both by university admissions tutors and potential employers.

As well as weekly language clubs and support clinics we are also proud to offer varied and exciting visits to France, including language study trips to Rouen, our long-established exchange with our partner school in Lyon, and the opportunity to complete work experience in France.

Spanish

Given the global community of over half a billion speakers, we are proud to promote the Spanish language as an impressive life-skill to acquire. As well as being an exciting academic challenge in its own right, mastering the language allows our students to embark on a voyage of discovery through the multi-faceted histories and cultures of Hispanic countries.

For most of our students, Spanish in Form 1 is a completely new adventure: our goal is to get them speaking and listening quickly, with practice in conversational Spanish as well as an introduction to grammar. We swiftly establish thorough knowledge of basic vocabulary, paving the way for those who choose GCSE study to acquire the skills they need both to discuss topics such as sports, technology and travel and to demonstrate good written Spanish. We see the acquisition of this highly transferable skill as part of our mission to educate the whole person; indeed, recent guest speakers have included an Old Columban who has made Spanish a key part of his successful career as a lawyer.

One language sets you in a corridor for life. Two languages open every door along the way.  Frank Smith

In addition to weekly language clubs in which students work with staff and older students to extend their conversation or reinforce their understanding, we very much enjoy taking our students on a variety of learning experiences, including trips to Valencia and our long-running study visit to Cordoba which includes mind-expanding visits to some of the most fascinating sites in Andalucia.

Most of our A Level linguists go on to study languages as part of their degrees. We prepare them for this by exposing them to native-speaker level themes and books. They also enhance the proficiency of their comprehension by studying Spanish films. We know that future employers and university admissions tutors continue to be impressed by A Level languages and we are proud to enable each student to reach his potential and achieve high marks.

What are the unique selling points of this subject at St Columba’s College?

By starting with one language, teaching time is maximised from Form 1, which builds the students’ confidence quickly. We also offer a wide variety of extra-curricular opportunities, from film clubs to French and Spanish festivals and a number of trips and study visits.

How are the students assessed?

During the course, the four skills – speaking, listening, reading and writing – are assessed frequently. Frequent vocabulary learning is also assessed so that more new words can be included in the students’ written and spoken sentences.

Starting in Form 3, work is marked according to AQA exam board guidelines so that students can begin to understand how the GCSE works and what they need to do to excel.

Home Learning

Weekly home learning includes frequent vocabulary lists – which are then used in class to extend what the students are able to describe – as well as research tasks, and some reading and writing.

How can parents/guardians support their child’s learning?

As well as learning more about other places and cultures, we seek to equip our learners with a new skill which will combine seamlessly with their other strengths and interests. Helping with vocabulary learning makes this task much easier, without a doubt, but talking about other places and watching films with the language (or subtitles) set to French or Spanish is a fun way to aid learning.

Useful Links

https://www.bbc.co.uk/bitesize/subjects/zc7xpv4
https://www.bbc.co.uk/bitesize/subjects/z4dqxnb
https://www.youtube.com/c/EasySpanish
https://www.youtube.com/c/EasyFrench

Sixth Form MFL

Modern Foreign Languages: Sixth Form

Course Description

At Advanced Level students follow the AQA AL course. There is one set in both French and Spanish, and our students find the study of MFL at A Level to be an excellent fit with their other subject choices. Each set is shared by two or three teachers, which exposes them to the greatest possible range of resources and stimulates thought on the wide variety of topics they explore. The sixth form has a varied programme of extra-curricular activities to which we seek to add. In previous years we have offered film and theatre trips as well as a week-long work placement in Europe. We are especially proud of our A Level linguists who have gone on to study French or Spanish as part of their degree at university.

Curriculum Overview

As well as exciting topics which provoke stimulating discussions and link well to our students’ other subject choices, A Level study allows an exploration of music, film and literature. This enables us to add another dimension to the language and further themes to be thought about and discussed.

What are the unique selling points of this subject at St Columba’s College?

Our small group sizes allow lively debate and discussion whilst also ensuring that every student makes optimum use of their teachers. The variety of extra-curricular support and opportunities on offer also means that every interest is catered for, all whilst developing our language skills.

How are the students assessed?

All four skills – speaking, listening, reading and writing – are assessed regularly, with particular emphasis on analysing and arguing effectively. After the first term – in which confidence is built and the course explored – we use the AQA A Level mark schemes to give feedback on written and spoken work, so that students understand what is required in the exam and can aim for a top grade.

Home Learning

Weekly written and learning tasks are set. Guidance is also given with regard to study periods, so that our A Level linguists always have a plan for how best to use their learning time effectively and how to continue to make progress between classes.

How can parents/guardians support their child’s learning?

At A Level, an inquisitive approach to current affairs (as well as their political and historical context) is a big help, and discussions of this kind at home are a big help when tackling a contentious issue in class. Exposure to as many French and Spanish speaking places, as well as their music, film and literature, also helps with the music, film and texts studied in class.

Useful Links

kerboodle.com
quizlet.com

Sixth Form French

MFL – French: Sixth Form

Why choose French?

An A Level in French is an enjoyable challenge in itself, but the skills you learn will combine perfectly with practically any other subjects, and make you much more marketable to a future university or employer. Your status as an A Level linguist defines you as somebody who is willing to work at developing a new skill, somebody who is open to new people and cultures, and somebody who is adept at communicating.

As well as mastering the skills of listening, reading, speaking and writing French, you will also access authentic French describing a huge variety of different topics and contexts and become a truly global citizen. Although many people speak French, it takes a degree of passion and commitment to reach A Level standard, and the rewards for taking this challenge are many, whatever your chosen destination in the future.

What will you learn?

As well as discovering and investigating relevant and exciting topics – from criminality to the cyber society, diversity to politics and the arts – you will use real-time news, radio and film to master the language, and be supported to explore books, films and plays. Everything we do is aimed at helping you to feel more confident, and the vast breadth of topics you cover will develop skills such as inquiry, problem-solving and analysis which will help in your other subject choices and serve you well at university or in the workplace. Good linguists are in-demand for their skills, and your two years studying French at A Level will not only be enjoyable but will also provide you with an impressive and very sought-after portfolio of skills.

Interlingual fluency is an extremely attractive accolade to hold nowadays; so why not begin this language journey with A-Level French?  James, A Level French Specialist

Student view

When first starting A-Level French, it was challenging: it is a big step up from GCSE but with the genuine support of the MFL Department, it didn’t take long to adjust. French A-Level is fascinating and fun; it blurs the disciplines of English, Politics and Media Studies (to name a few) altogether while honing in on the complexity and beauty of the French language herself. Interlingual fluency is an extremely attractive accolade to hold nowadays; so why not begin this language journey with A-Level French?

James, A Level French Specialist

Entry Requirement

We would prefer at least a grade 7 in the Higher-Level GCSE.

Examination Board
GCE French – AQA 765

Sixth Form Spanish

MFL – Spanish: Sixth Form

Why choose Spanish?

Spanish is one of the most widely spoken languages in the world. Your status as an A Level linguist defines you as somebody who is willing to work at developing a new skill, somebody who is open to new people and cultures, and somebody who is adept at communicating.

As well as mastering the skills of listening, reading, speaking and writing Spanish, you will also access authentic Spanish describing a huge variety of different topics and contexts and become a truly global citizen. You will be able to understand and discuss topics in fluent Spanish, and will also be encouraged to spend as much time in a Spanish-speaking country as you can. Although many people speak Spanish, it takes a degree of passion and commitment to reach A Level standard, and the rewards for taking this challenge are many.

What will you learn?

The course contains relevant and exciting topics such as immigration, cyberspace and cultural heritage. As well as exploring these at a native level, using websites and radio to support you, there will also be the chance to discover plays, books and films from the Spanish-speaking world. During two enjoyable years, as well as learning the language – an enjoyable academic challenge in itself – you will develop many transferrable skills which complement your other chosen subject

With nearly 480 million Spanish speakers worldwide, knowledge of the language will only become more necessary in an increasing globalised world.  Alex, Spanish Student

Student view

Spanish in Sixth Form has been intense but incredibly fun. It has been amazing to see how my skills in the language have developed over the past two years whilst learning more about Spanish and Latin American culture. I’d recommend this A Level to everyone because not only are the teachers absolutely fantastic and you will learn lots, but also with nearly 480 million Spanish speakers worldwide having knowledge of the language will only become more and more necessary in an increasing globalised world.
Alex, Spanish Student

Entry Requirement

You should be aiming for at least a Grade 7 in the Higher Tier GCSE

GCE Spanish Examination Board
AQA 7692

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Contact Us

St Columba’s College,
Registered Address:
8-10 King Harry Lane,
St Albans,
Hertfordshire,
AL3 4AW

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Tel: 01727 855185

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