Modern Foreign Languages

The MFL department offers A-Levels in Spanish, French and German and girls benefit from the experience of six subject specialists and native French, Spanish and German speakers.

Building on the knowledge, understanding and skills gained at GCSE, each course offers an insight into a country’s culture, its history and politics, religion, civil rights and immigration. Girls develop a high level of linguistic fluency which will provide them with an excellent foundation for further study.

The A-Level qualification in all three languages offered at the school is linear. Subject content includes social issues and trends, political and artistic culture, grammar and literary texts and films.

Girls are assessed on their knowledge of current trends, issues and artistic culture in the society of their relevant country, as well as the use of grammar.

The examination consists of three papers:
1. Listening and reading comprehension, including a translation element.
2. Assessment of writing.
3. Speaking – girls prepare an independent topic for discussion and take part in a general conversation based on themes.

The department uses the latest online courses, journals and DVDs to deliver the syllabus and girls have the use of iPods in lessons and an individual playback facility in assessments and examinations.

Girls are encouraged to undertake independent language work outside the classroom and also visit the country relevant to their studies, while there will be opportunities to accompany an organised school visit to locations such as Paris. Over recent years many Sixth Form language students have undertaken work experience in France, Germany or Spain.