How can schools bring modern languages to life? | Sponsored

When you think of studying a language what springs to mind? Perhaps the idea of testing out new-found linguistic skills somewhere further afield, or experiencing a culture in a way that was previously inaccessible? For many it's a subject that's brimming with possibilities and excitement.   But with a packed curriculum full of vocabulary and grammar, how can teachers ensure that the magic of foreign languages doesn't fall by the wayside?   In the UK the number of students choosing to study these subjects is on the decline, and with some schools forced to drop language lessons during the pandemic, this has presented another bump in the road for departments.   But as schools continue to bounce back from the pandemic, is it possible that these subjects could offer learners another source of much needed cultural capital? This is something seen to have been lacking in previous years, with off-site visits were prohibited, and something often cited alongside plans to close attainment gaps and 'level up'. If so, is there room in language lessons to properly allow students to get a flavour of these countries?   In this edition of the Tes podcast, senior editor Simon lock asks how schools can recapture the imagination of learners when it comes to modern foreign languages.    He speaks to Paul Burgin, subject leader for languages at Kings Langley school in Hertfordshire and Keri Bosley, director of learning and achievement for languages, at Crickhowell School in Wales, to find out what their respective schools have put in place.  This podcast is sponsored by the British Council. From resources like The Great Languages Challenge, to our Language Assistants programme where speakers from 14 different countries can help students develop their linguistic and cross-cultural skills, the British Council is here to help you bring languages to life in the classroom.  Discover more and apply for a language assistant for the 2022-23 academic year before 2 May 2022 at https://www.britishcouncil.org/school-resources/employ-language-assistant