At the centre of our philosophy at Copthorne Prep is the belief that language learning is a creative and collaborative activity; where pupil engagement and enjoyment are key.
Language should not be just an activity where the ultimate goal is to achieve an academic standard that will hang on a wall gathering dust, never to be used again. It is a life skill that opens doors to different cultures and experiences.
For this reason, we believe that for our pupils the language learning experience at our school should be one that will be remembered and treasured for the rest of their lives. In order to help us achieve this, pupils have opportunities to participate in language days, trips abroad in Year 7 and 8, theatre visits for younger years and cultural workshops such as flamenco dancing. We want them to leave our school not only with a high level of language and grammar but also a zest for learning.
The majority of pupils learn Spanish and French at Copthorne Prep. In the Pre-prep French is taught by specialist teachers from reception through to Year 2. Spanish is taught as an after-school club by a native speaker.
In Years 3 and 8 both Spanish and French are taught within the curriculum. Speaking and listening are the focus areas in Year 3, however, in Years 4 through to 8 a greater emphasis is placed on reading and writing.
Both languages at Copthorne are taught by specialist teachers.