Modern Languages

This thriving department reflects the importance we attach to the enjoyment of learning languages. With the expansion of the European Community, it has now become a simple truism that proficiency in one or more modern languages seriously enhances career prospects.

At Loughborough, the Modern Languages department is one of the largest in the School. Based in our brand new building, the 'Cope', this consists of 7 classrooms, a 32-booth audio laboratory and a 12-station digital laboratory with Internet and intranet access and data projector. These state-of-the-art facilities enable AS and A2 students to watch satellite TV on their own screen, broadcast on-screen PowerPoint presentations to other students and carry out pair/group-work via headphones. We pride ourselves that we offer the best opportunities available for our pupils to enjoy and succeed in the challenge to speak in other tongues. Currently we offer courses in French, Spanish and German – all of which can be studied up to GCSE, AS and A2 Level.

Trips and visits to foreign countries play a vital part in language study and Loughborough offers many such opportunities. For those taking their GCSE, we have developed an exciting range of pan-European schemes that allow all students at least one chance to visit the country of their choice. And those that go on to study languages to A2 Level will find a range of further opportunities to travel during that two year course, including exchange visits and cultural tours.

As a fun and friendly department, we are big on extra activities. Younger pupils are encouraged to join our Junior French Club where activities include role-plays, cooking, songs and even board games – all conducted as far as possible in French. Later on, Sixth Form linguists join one of our after-school societies where activities, now strictly in the language of their choice, include cinema appreciation, foreign cuisine, quizzes, wine-tasting and even boules.