Curriculum vision

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 students 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

Key stage 3

Every student coming into year 8 will study Spanish. They will continue learning Spanish in year 9 and some students will learn French alongside Spanish in year 9. In year 10 all students study one language. At key stage 3 students 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. From the start of year 8, students develop their literacy, cultural awareness and problem solving skills.

Key stage 4

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.

Key stage 5

Spanish is currently offered to sixth-form students through our enrichment programme.

Extra-curricular

Our Languages club allows our students to experience different cultures. Students 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 is always a big hit and, of course, we celebrate European Day of Languages when students take part in competitions. At Parkhall Integrated College, we recognise the need for students to put into practice what they learn in the classroom and so students will have the opportunity to go on annual trips abroad.