The Modern Languages Department at Parkhall Integrated College aims to:

• Create confident and enthusiastic language learners
• Develop students’ Speaking, Listening, Reading and Writing skills in other languages
• Teach the students the importance of languages in the workplace and in a global world
• Equip the pupils with the necessary skills and knowledge to study languages through to Key Stage 4 or beyond and for future travel and work
• Make language learning fun and rewarding through our modern communicative teaching methods
• Create a dynamic, forward-thinking and innovative department where all language learners feel valued, respected and encouraged to reach their full potential

Every pupil coming into Year 8 will study French and Spanish. They continue learning both languages in Year 9 and Year 10. At Key Stage 3 pupils will study a range of topics through both languages and take part in active learning activities in order to develop their ability to talk and write about themselves and their family, home and environment, personal interests and school life.

GCSE French and Spanish are offered, following the CCEA GCSE Specifications. The four key skill areas of Speaking, Listening, Reading and Writing are assessed through external examinations at the end of the two-year course.

OCN Level 2 Certificate in Modern Languages is also offered as an option, which takes the form of continuous assessment over the course of the two years.

Spanish is currently offered to sixth form pupils through our enrichment programme. Pupils learn Spanish with a focus on Speaking.

Each modern and bright Modern Language classroom is equipped with a Promethean Board and a class set of Chromebooks for use by the pupils. The Department subscribes to Modern Language websites which provide interactive and innovative learning opportunities for all our pupils.

Homework is designed to complement the learning in the classroom. We strive to match tasks to pupils' ability. Students are assessed at the end of units and, in addition, there are 4 tracking assessments throughout the year in October, December, April and June.

Our Languages club allows our pupils to experience different cultures. Pupils have the opportunity to learn other languages, try food from other countries, take part in cookery sessions, watch films, play games, take part in Arts and Crafts and much more.

The annual French Breakfast with Year 8 is always a big hit and, of course, we celebrate European Day of Languages. Pupils take part in competitions and we have a themed lunch. At Parkhall Integrated College, we recognise the need for pupils to put into practice what they learn in the classroom and so pupils will have the opportunity to go on trips abroad to Spain and France.