Languages

At Sawston we believe in languages for all. By learning a Modern Foreign Language pupils acquire transferable skills of lifelong use for travel, work and leisure. All of our pupils start French in Year 7, and the majority begin a second language, either German or Spanish, at the beginning of Year 8.

To enhance language-learning at Sawston during Key Stage 3 we offer a wide range of cultural trips abroad.  Almost all of our pupils continue with at least one language to GCSE, and we encourage some to become dual linguists. At GCSE we follow modular AQA courses, in which the four skills of listening, reading, speaking and writing are examined through coursework and exams. Click for details of the AQA syllabus at GCSE for French, German and Spanish.

We have been granted Modern Languages Specialist Status at Sawston, which is opening up doors for the staff and pupils of the college and the wider community. Amongst other initiatives, we are now working closely with feeder primary schools to develop young learners’ language awareness and skills, and recently our Year 10s have been enjoying taster classes in Chinese and Japanese. 

The languages department has a multimedia suite which allows for independent, interactive language learning. All pupils who study languages have regular access to this digital technology to enhance their learning.

We currently have French and German native speakers working as assistants in the languages department. They work with small groups of pupils to develop their speaking and listening skills and allow for greater authenticity in language learning.