Modern Foreign Languages

Head of Modern Foreign Languages Mrs. H. Goddard

Kent College pupils enjoy the advantage of a thriving Modern Languages Department. Most study two languages from French, German or Spanish during the first three years and continue with at least one of these to GCSE.

The emphasis in the classroom is upon communication and much of the teaching is conducted in the target language. However the importance of an understanding of grammar remains high on the agenda, so that pupils are well equipped to communicate with confidence and accuracy. The quality of our teaching is such that one of our students was placed in the Top 5 in the whole of the UK for his Spanish A Level papers in 2004.

Courses in French, German and Spanish are offered at "AS" and "A" level, and sixth formers are encouraged to continue developing their language skills at this level, whether or not they regard themselves as linguists. We promote the view that being able to speak a second or third language can be of huge benefit in many different areas of employment and that it sets one apart in a very competitive market place.

Language learning in the classroom does, however, have its limitations, no matter how competent the teacher, and we do all we can to develop opportunities for our pupils to travel to France, Germany and Spain. We have excellent links and annual exchanges with the Institution Giynemer in Compiègne, the Georgii Gymnasiium in Esslingen, near Stuttgart, and with the Colegio Apóstol Santiago in Galicia, Vigo. We also organise an annual cultural visit to Paris or Nice and Madrid or Berlin for the 6th Formers and a long weekend to the Rhineland and the Christmas markets for younger pupils.