Languages
Department overview
The Languages department aims to develop confident, resilient and culturally aware linguists through the teaching of Spanish, Italian and Mandarin. Students develop the skills of listening, speaking, reading and writing while building a secure understanding of phonics, vocabulary and grammar from KS3 through to GCSE and A-level. The curriculum is carefully sequenced to support retrieval, independence and long-term progress, enabling students to communicate with increasing accuracy and confidence. Lessons encourage curiosity about different cultures and traditions, helping pupils develop a broader understanding of life beyond their local community. Students are challenged to think independently. The department promotes high aspirations for all learners through engaging and ambitious lessons which prepare students for further study, travel and future employment in an increasingly global society.
Key Stage 3 curriculum
At Key Stage 3, pupils build a strong foundation in Spanish, Italian and Mandarin through topics such as family and friends, school, hobbies, food, holidays, local area and cultural traditions. They develop their listening, speaking, reading and writing skills alongside key grammar and vocabulary, enabling them to communicate with increasing confidence and accuracy. The curriculum encourages curiosity about different cultures and helps pupils understand the wider world, while developing resilience, independence and the communication skills needed for success at GCSE and beyond.
Key Stage 4 curriculum
GCSE Spanish, Italian and Mandarin
A GCSE language course is an excellent choice for pupils who enjoy communicating, exploring different cultures and developing skills that open up opportunities in education, employment and travel.
At Key Stage 4, pupils follow the AQA GCSE (9–1) in Spanish (8692), AQA GCSE (9–1) in Italian (8633) or Pearson Edexcel GCSE (9–1) in Mandarin Chinese. Over the two-year course, pupils build upon the knowledge and skills developed at Key Stage 3, further developing their ability to understand and use the target language in a wide range of real-life contexts.
Pupils are assessed in the four key skill areas of listening, speaking, reading and writing, with each skill contributing equally towards the final GCSE grade. Students are entered for either Foundation Tier (grades 1–5) or Higher Tier (grades 4–9), with the most appropriate tier being determined during Year 11 following careful consideration of each pupil’s progress and attainment.
We use a range of up-to-date resources, authentic materials and examination support materials to ensure pupils are fully prepared for the demands of their chosen GCSE course.
Throughout each course pupils will study relationships with friends and family, school, free-time, holidays, and future ambitions.
Key Stage 5 curriculum
At A Level, students develop advanced language skills through the study of contemporary Spanish society, cultural topics, literature and film. They explore issues such as family, technology, social change, multiculturalism, regional identity and political life in the Spanish-speaking world. Students strengthen their listening, speaking, reading and writing skills while developing the ability to discuss complex topics, express opinions and analyse authentic texts. An independent research project encourages students to investigate an area of personal interest linked to the Spanish-speaking world. The course develops cultural awareness, critical thinking and communication skills, preparing students for university study and a wide range of international careers.
Enrichment opportunities
The department offers a range of enrichment opportunities to develop students’ cultural awareness and enthusiasm for language learning.
- Restaurant visits are organised to give students the opportunity to experience authentic Spanish, Italian and Chinese cuisine while developing their understanding of cultural traditions and customs.
- At KS4, GCSE students are offered overseas educational visits, including trips to Malaga, Rome, and a trip to China where they can experience the language and culture first-hand through guided visits, cultural activities and real-life communication opportunities.
- Some enrichment activities are open to all students across KS3 and KS4, while overseas visits are primarily offered to GCSE students.
- Opportunities may take place during the school day such as lunchtime Mandarin classes or through half-day trips to restaurants.
- The department also supports participation in cultural events and European day of Languages each September.
Curriculum road map
Year 7
Term 1
- Greetings
- Name and age
- Birthdays
- Family members and ages
- Physical descriptions.
Term 2
- Weather
- Sports
- Hobbies
- Free time
Term 3
- Types of houses
- Describing home and furniture
- Film study : Encanto
Year 8
Term 1
- School subjects likes and dislikes.
- Describing teachers
- Rules in school
- My town
Term 2
- Next weekend plans
- Fashion
- Holiday plans
Term 3
- Cultural project: An inside to Mexico’s culture
- Film study : Coco
- Food you like
- In the restaurant
Year 9
Term 1
- Technology
- Social media
- TV
- Cinema in the past
Term 2
- Festivals and traditions
- Jobs and careers
- Healthy lifestyle
- Healthy diet.
Term 3
- Holidays in the past, present and future.
- A future trip to Malaga
Year 10
Term 1
- Grammar
- Family and relations .
Term 2
- Healthy lifestyle
- Diet
- School
Term 3
- Celebrities
- Free time
Year 11
Term 1
- Holidays
- Festivals and traditions
Term 2
- Area where you live
- Environment
- Technology and social media
Term 3
- Formal Speaking exam
- Exam revision
Useful websites
- Duolingo
- Language Gym
- BBC Bitesize
- Quizlet
- Memrise
- Spanish GCSE – Specification
- Italian GCSE – Specification
- Mandarin GCSE – Specification
Careers
- Diplomat
- Intelligence Analyst
- International Lawyer
- Airline Pilot
- Cyber Security Consultant
- International Marketing Manager
- Foreign Correspondent
- Conference Interpreter
- International Business Development Manager
- Luxury Brand Manager