Languages in KS4: Broadening Perspectives

Are you concerned about the number of students taking languages in KS4? Worried about results once coursework goes? Finding many students switched off by the GCSE specification?

This year we are offering MFL teachers the chance to look at alternative courses and to share ideas and resources to promote the value of language learning in a series of informal CPD sessions at St. Aidan’s Catholic School and Language College, Sunderland.

At each session teachers already delivering alternative courses or using key resources will present their experience, with plenty of time for questions, contributions from others and sharing ideas; the aim is to promote professional dialogue and mutual support around common issues facing MFL departments.

Sessions will take place the first Monday of each month in term time – details overleaf. All interested teachers are welcome to attend as many sessions as they like. Each event will start at 3.30pm with tea, cake, introductions and informal discussion. A presentation at 4pm will be followed by questions and discussion, concluding at 5.30pm.

If you would like to receive further details or reminders, email Janet Mayes (Language College Director, St. Aidan’s)

janet.mayes@schools.sunderland.gov.uk

Monday 1 October: Promoting Language Learning

A look at activities and resources to promote language learning, with the opportunity for a hands-on play with some of the ICT based resources available.

Led by Janet Mayes, Language College Director, St. Aidan’s.

Monday 5 November: Work related learning and opportunities in MFL.

How can MFL departments contribute to and benefit from the enterprise curriculum? How can we ensure that the introduction of diploma courses does not lead to a further fall in the number of students studying a language? How can we build links with employers to support vocational MFL courses?o

Led by Joanna Lyons, Enterprise Advisor, North Tyneside EPB (and former MFL teacher)

Monday 3 December: Delivering NVQ in KS4

The background to the VIPS ( Vocational International Project Sheffield) in Sheffield, how the NVQ works and its benefits, plus an overview of resources.

Led by Katherine Smith, manager of VIPS project (and MFL teacher)

Monday 4 February :

Presenter to be confirmed. We hope this section will focus on the Edexcel GCSE in Applied French.

Monday 3 March: Asset Languages

Could you use Asset accreditation, based on the Languages Ladder, as an alternative to GCSE? A look at how it works and the potential benefits.

Led by Virginia Hill, Language College Director, St. Bede’s RC School, Lanchester, and Jennie King, Head of Modern Languages, Monkseaton High School

St. Aidan’s Catholic School and Language College, Willow Bank Road, Sunderland SR2 7HJ

Telephone 0191 5536073

Further information from janet.mayes@schools.sunderland.gov.uk