Modern Languages

In a world where international contacts are increasingly vital and where global communication is ever easier, the importance of being able to speak other languages and understand different cultures is paramount. Watson’s is committed to equipping our pupils with these skills, and the process begins in the early years of the Junior School.

In the Senior School, we teach French, German, Spanish, Russian, Italian and Chinese. The Modern Languages Department is committed and energetic, and we are fortunate to have native speakers on the staff, as well as conversation assistants from France, Germany, Spain and Italy. All of the staff have spent prolonged periods abroad and are committed to the ideals of internationalism.

As pupils attending our Junior School have already developed a foundation in French, S1 classes are organised according to previous experience. If pupils do not wish to do French in S1, we offer a choice of Spanish or German.

Pupils have to continue with their first foreign language up until Intermediate 2, and a very large number continue to Higher and Advanced Higher. If pupils wish to take up a second language, they can start learning a new language in S3. We also offer courses which start in S5 and S6, leading to a variety of qualifications in German, Spanish, Italian, Russian and Chinese.

The emphasis in language learning is on speaking, as the ability to communicate orally is an essential skill. However, at all levels, we underpin this with solid learning of grammar and vocabulary, and we develop the skills of listening, reading and writing at all stages of the curriculum. Language learning is put into context by a number of exchanges and cultural visits, as well as drama competitions, residential language-speaking weekends, and outings to see foreign films and plays. In addition, eminent sportsmen have come to speak to our pupils in French. Special tutorials are arranged for bilingual children with our native speakers.

Special classes are arranged for bilingual children with our native speakers. The Department holds a Language Scholarship fund which allows our senior pupils to travel abroad to improve their skills.