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Welcome to the Languages Department
At our school, the Languages Department is dedicated to nurturing a rich and comprehensive linguistic education for all students. We offer a diverse range of language programs designed to develop each pupil to their maximum potential in the use and understanding of both first and foreign languages.
We pride ourselves in being a thriving international community. Our student population is made up of over 50 nationalities which allows students to be exposed to people and cultures from around the world every day of the school year. Research has shown that having a good grasp of one’s native language benefits emotional well-being, enhances academic success and promotes the acquisition of additional languages. In a world that is increasingly interconnecting, language is a vital marker of identity and culture.
At HeadStart, we have put an emphasis on building a language department which can provide first language courses for students in Year 1 all the way through to Year 13. The HeadStart Language teachers have strong academic backgrounds and diverse experience in supporting language acquisition. Our teachers are all native speakers in the languages that they teach, and most of them speak more than two languages.
This broad provision for language options means that in addition to the Cambridge curriculum offered at HeadStart, 85% of our students are also able to study their native language at a first language level.
| Languages Taught | |
|---|---|
| French | from Year 1 to Year 13 as a foreign language |
| Mandarin | from Year 1 to Year 11 as a first language |
| from Year 1 to 13 as a foreign language | |
| Russian | from Year 1 to Year 9 as a first language |
Teaching Philosophy:
Our philosophy is centred on empowering students to achieve language proficiency at a level that aligns with their unique experiences. We believe in providing a supportive and enriching environment that fosters a deep appreciation for linguistic diversity.
Student Benefits:
First language students study their native tongue four times a week in both primary and secondary levels. Foreign language students benefit from three weekly classes in primary and four in secondary, providing a robust foundation in language proficiency.
Extracurricular Activities (ECAs):
Explore the Mandarin, Russian, and French ECAs that are on offer on our website. These classes are designed to offer additional academic support, enhance cultural understanding, and prepare students for specific language exam requirements.
Contribution to Overall Educational Experience:
The Languages Department plays a crucial role in supporting students in their native tongues and emphasises the importance of learning foreign languages. Beyond linguistic proficiency, our programs contribute to the broader educational goals of fostering global awareness, cultural sensitivity, and effective communication skills, preparing students to thrive in an interconnected world.
Key Events
- Language Days: Experience the vibrant cultures of Mandarin and Russian through our Language Days held twice a year.
- Language Parent Meetings: Engage with Mandarin and Russian-speaking parents at our regular meetings three times per year.
- Cultural Celebrations: Each sub-language department organises events such as the Lunar New Year, creating opportunities for cultural exchange and celebration.
