“Celebrating European Day of Languages: Why Learning Languages Ignites Minds at Hatherop Castle”

What an amazing day we had this week celebrating European Day of Languages! This special day, celebrated on 26th September, is more than just a celebration—it’s a gateway to understanding, respect, and connection with cultures far and wide.

Why Learning Languages Matters
In today’s interconnected world, learning a new language is not just about mastering words; it’s about opening doors to new perspectives and experiences. Here are a few reasons why we think language learning is crucial for our children:

• Global Citizenship: By learning new languages, they gain the ability to connect with people from different backgrounds, fostering empathy and broadening their worldview.
• Cultural Appreciation: Language is deeply intertwined with culture. Understanding a language means gaining insight into the traditions, history, and values of different societies.
• Enhanced Cognitive Skills: Studies show that children who access other languages often excel in problem-solving and multitasking, enhancing their academic performance.

How Our School Supports Language Learning
At Hatherop Castle, we believe in the transformative power of languages. Here’s how we’re making a difference:

• Dynamic Language Curriculum: In the Pre-Prep, we not only focus on French as a modern foreign language, but we offer taster sessions in a variety of other languages. In Reception and Prep 1, we work closely with the classroom teachers to offer an insight into some languages that link with their topics. In the past, basics in Norwegian, Spanish, and Hindi were introduced, helping bring to life what the children had been learning in Topic sessions. French is also developed further, preparing them for their language journey higher up in the school.
  In Prep 2, pupils explore the basics of three European languages: Italian, Spanish, and German, as they begin to explore the world beyond the UK. From Prep 3 to Prep 8, we focus primarily on French to build confidence in the language for potential use in their senior schools and in real life, as well as preparing those who will take the Common Entrance or Scholarship examinations. A solid grounding in one language is a fantastic tool when it comes to learning another. Our overall aim is to provide engaging lessons in a variety of languages, tailored to capture students’ interest and foster a love for learning now and after their time at Hatherop.
• Cultural Celebrations: From European Day of Languages to themed events throughout the year, we immerse students in cultural experiences that bring their language studies to life – and this is also embedded in other areas of the curriculum across the whole school.
• Trips and Partnerships: Something we are aiming to set up in the near future is a pen-pal programme with a school in a French-speaking country—giving our pupils the chance to use their language skills for a real purpose, as well as developing links with and learning about the lives of other global citizens.
  Prep 6 and Prep 7 also have the fantastic opportunity to practise their French skills and experience la belle France first-hand on the French trip to the Château de la Baudonnière in Normandy. This year, it is taking place during the last week of the Lent Term. A letter was sent out at the beginning of term to the parents of children in those year groups with details and instructions on how to sign up. Please do not hesitate to get in touch should you have any questions about the trip (allan.hempsted@hatheropcastle.co.uk), or if you are having difficulty finding the correspondence, please contact Mrs Freebury in the Office (office@hatheropcastle.co.uk), who will gladly send you another copy.

What can you do at home?
One of the easiest and most effective ways you can support your child with their language learning is to ask them about what they have been doing in their lessons. Set them the challenge of teaching you something new, test them on vocabulary, or explore songs and videos online. This not only deepens their learning but also sends a message to them that language learning is important in our lives and encourages them to explore further.

Thank you for your continued support in nurturing a generation of curious, empathetic, and globally-minded citizens.