Parkfield High School achieves specialist status in modern foreign languages (MFL) - Statement from headteacher Arthur Thompson
Released: 31 January 2008
After nearly two years of hard work and preparation congratulations go to the pupils, parents, governors and staff of Parkfield High School for succeeding in the application to become a Specialist School in Languages.
The announcement made by the Department for Children, Schools and Families today, January 31, 2008, will lead to some exciting changes at the school over the next three years and beyond, commencing in September 2008. The application includes plans to construct a new community ICT classroom to enhance learning through new technologies for all pupils. It will also be used to introduce after-school and weekend language classes not only to its pupils but also parents, staff and a variety of community groups.
Language learning opportunities will include the continuing study of French, Spanish, German, Russian and Punjabi as well as the introduction of British Sign Language and Japanese or Chinese. The range of MFL qualifications on offer will also increase to include the traditional GCSE but also Asset Languages in Key Stage 3; Business Languages in Key Stages 3 and 4 and ‘A’ Level Languages in the sixth form. Joint visits abroad are also planned, for example, science students will go to Futuroscope in France and art students will visit Barcelona to further enrich their learning in Years 1 and 2 of the project culminating in a visit to India in Year 3.
Designation will also see further work between Parkfield High School and its primary school partners including Manor, Lanesfield, Parkfield and Wilkinson where sixth form students will become Languages Leaders to teach languages to Key Stage 2 pupils. Links will also be established with Northicote Secondary School.
Everyone at the school is delighted with the successful outcome of our application and we know this is a real opportunity to further enhance the learning opportunities available to our students and to the local community.
Anyone needing further information about learning languages at Parkfield High School should contact Mrs Jas Sangha, the co-ordinator of the school’s specialism in languages.
Issued by the press office. |