Only 6% of the world's population are native English speakers. 75% speak no English at all. In a global society, therefore, being equipped with one or more additional languages can be a real bonus.

At King’s we believe that learning languages contributes to mutual understanding, a sense of global citizenship and personal fulfillment. Pupils learn to appreciate different countries, cultures, communities and people. By making comparisons, they gain insight into their own culture and society. The ability to understand and communicate in another language is a lifelong skill for education, employment and leisure in this country and throughout the world.

Learning languages gives pupils opportunities to develop their listening, speaking, reading and writing skills and to express themselves with increasing confidence, independence and creativity. They are able to explore the similarities and differences between other languages and English and learn how language can be manipulated and applied in different ways. The development of communication skills, together with understanding the structure of language, prepares our students for future study of other languages.

We strongly believe that pupils, through the study of a foreign language, acquire many transferable skills which are favoured in many employment sectors. Languages open the door to wider opportunities and can be a valuable asset in the UK, Europe and beyond.

Learning languages also helps to develop practical confidence. It provides an opportunity to acquire valuable academic and intellectual skills.

In the first year, all pupils learn French and Spanish. As they progress through the curriculum, they may choose to carry on one or both languages to GCSE. Most pupils are encouraged to do least one language to GCSE.

Visits abroad provide a practical opportunity to use their language skills. Every year Second Form (Year 8) pupils go on an activity and language course in Normandy and every other year Third Form (Year 9) through to Upper Sixth (Year 13) pupils can join us on a trip to Spain and/or France.

We aim to make learning a language a creative, innovative and interactive experience so that our pupils feel enthusiasm and enjoyment for the subject.