Linguists bring skills to life
Modern Foreign Languages (MFL) pupils embraced the opportunity to work on their linguistic skills during a trip to east Manchester and by taking part in a debating competition.
Language Learning at the Etihad Stadium
50 Third Year MFL pupils explored the importance of language learning in the world of professional football during an exciting educational visit to Manchester City’s Etihad Stadium.
Pupils were divided into two groups and took part in a range of interactive workshops. These included learning about the vital role languages play across the football club, taking part in an engaging activity where they interviewed one another in Spanish as journalists and footballers, and enjoying a guided tour of the Etihad Stadium.
The Manchester City staff were particularly impressed by the pupils’ enthusiasm, willingness to participate, and excellent behaviour throughout the visit. It was a valuable and inspiring experience that highlighted how language skills can open doors in a wide range of careers.
Annual Debating Competition
The MFL Department entered three teams into the annual North Schools’ Modern Languages Debating Competition.
Pupils represented the school in Spanish, German and French, debating a range of thought-provoking motions in their chosen languages.
The Spanish team performed exceptionally well, winning debates against both Sale Grammar School and Withington Girls’ School and only narrowly missing out on a place in the final. The German team secured a strong victory in their first debate against Poynton High School before facing tough competition from Xaverian College in their second round. Our French team delivered confident and articulate performances in both of their debates, despite not securing a win.
All teams debated challenging motions, including:
- “Don’t give your child a smartphone until they’re 16”
- “Creativity is more important than knowledge”
- “There is no point in going to university nowadays”
- “You should be able to vote at 16”
The German and French teams were made up entirely of Lower Sixth pupils, giving them valuable experience in what is traditionally an Upper Sixth competition. Judges commented on the high standard of their language skills and the maturity of their arguments.
Well done to the pupils for demonstrating outstanding linguistic ability, confidence, and determination throughout the event.
