At HPS, we believe in learners who are internationally minded and are able to appreciate as well as communicate as global citizens wherever they find themselves.

One of the ways in which we develop this international mindedness is to provide an opportunity for our students to learn an additional language. Our curriculum provides  a first-rate experience of two major world languages; this will enhance their ability to communicate and express themselves in a foreign language which help learners appreciate the associated cultures across the Francophone and Hispanic worlds. 

Key Stage 3

In year 7, students learn to describe themselves, their pets and their families, express opinions and talk about school and hobbies whilst recognising various patterns and sounds in the language.  Lessons are taught via a range of media, games and fun activities to enable students to make significant progress each language.  Each course starts from beginners’ level which enables acquisition of the language for the first time, whilst enhancing the abilities of those with experience from primary school.  There is a focus on listening, reading, speaking, writing and translation skills which, in turn, build up a firm foundation for those wishing to continue to IGCSE and beyond.

At year 8, students will continue with their studies in both languages from Year 7. They are assisted in extending their repertoire of vocabulary and begin to formulate fuller spoken and written answers. Learners are taught to express a wider range of opinions and begin to use a variety of tenses including present, past and future.   

Year 9 is an enhancement of the skills learnt in Years 7 and 8 however we do also aim to build a solid foundation for those continuing onto IGCSE. This is done by further focus on more advanced grammatical structures including tenses, adding detail to spoken and written work and confidence building. Topics studied include fashion, holidays, media and food. 

Key Stage 4

Students are strongly advised to continue with at least one language to IGCSE due to the significant benefits noted in future university studies, employment and communication skills.  Language learning makes for a much broader skill set and is highly desirable in an international world.  We currently follow the 9-1 IGCSE Cambridge syllabus. Students learn to understand and provide information and opinions relating to their own lifestyle and that of other people, including people in countries where the foreign language is spoken. These skills are developed in the contexts of Family and Friends, Technology, Free-time, Customs and Festivals, Home, Town, Global and Social Issues, Travel and Tourism, School and Future Employment.  Hence, each learner has a wide variety of vocabulary and language knowledge across a range of interesting themes. Students will benefit from being able to opt for Foundation or Higher-Level activities to develop their skills at a pace best suited to the individual.

Educational visits and extracurricular activity

We offer international trips including the possibility of undertaking work experience abroad. There are also plenty of in-house competitions, declamation contests, public speaking engagements as well as promotional events. Our MFL clubs are also available to further support learner proficiency.

Rooms and resources

We have a well-equipped language resource room. We use a variety of different resources which enable us to vary our approach according to the needs of the students. There are interactive smart Tv boards in our teaching rooms and we have a number of different software /programmes and apps to provide variety in our teaching. Similarly, the school has provided a wide range of interactive activities, games, links and support to enhance the learning experiences