Modern Languages

The study of languages should be hugely inspiring and rewarding and it is our aim to ensure they are so at S. Anselm’s College, facilitating pupils’ progression to further studies or use of languages in potential future employment.

Small classes are key to developing pupils’ mastery of a foreign language. Our students are truly privileged in this way, learning in small groups catering for all abilities and providing extensive opportunity to express themselves orally and all the support and resources they need to succeed.

Pupils in S. Anselm’s College study either French or Spanish to GCSE.  For both languages, we adhere to the rigorous AQA GCSE Examination Board syllabus, which is taught over three years from Year 9 to Year 11.

The themes covered in both language courses are identical, as follows:

Identity and Culture

• Me, my family and friends
• Technology in everyday life
• Free-time activities (music, entertainment, sport, food and eating out)
• Customs and festivals

Local, national and global areas of interest

• Home, town neighbourhood and region
• Social issues (charity, voluntary work, healthy/unhealthy living)
• Global issues (the environment, poverty/homelessness)
• Travel and tourism

Current and future study and employment

• My studies
• Life at school/college
• Education post-16
• Jobs, career choices and ambition

A full range of resources are available, from digital resources to extensive access to our dedicated team of subject experts.

The Modern Languages Department organises various tours including the Spanish Camino Expedition undertaken by Kinder (Year 9) in the Summer Term and an annual French Trip, designed to inspire and motivate our pupils in the development of their language skills.