The first modern foreign language studied is French.  Students in Years 7 and 8 are taught in mixed ability groups and are set in Year 9.  They have five lessons per fortnight in Year 7 and three per fortnight in Years 8 and 9. 

Students start Spanish in year 8 as their second modern foreign language, with three periods per fortnight.  In Year 9 they receive four lessons per fortnight.

Those who wish to opt for a modern foreign language at GCSE can choose either French or Spanish or both.  At present we follow the AQA Syllabus in both languages. It is a linear course assessed by an end of course exam at the end of Year 11, with no coursework.

The MFL Department has established a link with a school to the east of Paris and our fifth trip there will take place this year.  We also have links with Spanish schools near Madrid and in Cordoba in southern Spain.

At A Level, students follow the Edexcel course in both languages.  An A Level in MFL is highly regarded by universities and should be considered by students to help them in their search for a university place.

The aims of the A level course are to encourage students to:

• Develop understanding of the spoken and written forms of the language using a variety of stimuli, such as magazines, newspapers, television and literature.
• Communicate confidently, clearly and imaginatively in the foreign language in both speaking and writing while using accurate and complex language.
• Increase awareness of the process of language learning.
• Develop critical insights and contact with contemporary society in the target language country.
• Develop critical thinking, creativity, independence and skills of analysis.
• Develop skills to be able to learn other languages.