Modern Foreign Languages
Head of Department: Tori Murphy
Welcome to the Modern Foreign Languages Department at Ivybridge Community College.
Our dynamic and passionate team is dedicated to inspiring students to develop a lifelong love of languages and an appreciation for different cultures. In an increasingly globalised world, we believe that learning a language not only opens doors academically and professionally, but also builds key skills such as communication, resilience, problem-solving and confidence. With a supportive and engaging learning environment, enriched by trips abroad, competitions, projects and cultural events, we encourage students to become confident, competent and culturally aware linguists. Our aim is to equip every learner with the linguistic skills and global outlook needed to thrive as active, informed citizens in an interconnected world.
Key Stage 3
At Key Stage 3, students study either French or Spanish for four hours per fortnight from Years 7 to 9.
Our aim is to develop confident language learners who can communicate effectively while also gaining a strong understanding of other cultures. Cultural awareness is developed throughout the course, with opportunities for students to take part in cultural events and, where possible, trips abroad.
Supporting Learning at Home
We encourage parents to support language learning in a variety of ways, including:
- Keeping a bilingual dictionary at home
- Using online platforms such as Languagenut (students are provided with login details)
- Listening to or watching foreign language media such as radio, music, television and YouTube content
Language learning at KS3 builds strong communication skills, cultural understanding and confidence, forming a strong foundation for GCSE study.
Key Stage 4
Students have the opportunity to continue their language learning by studying GCSE French or Spanish as a two-year course, starting in Year 10.
The course follows the Edexcel specification.
Assessment
The GCSE is assessed through four key skills:
- Listening
- Reading
- Speaking
- Writing
Each skill is worth 25% of the final grade and is assessed through formal examinations at the end of Year 11.
This course builds communication skills, cultural understanding and confidence in using a modern foreign language in real-life contexts.
Exam Board: https://qualifications.pearson.com/en/subjects/languages.html
Key Stage 5
At Key Stage 5, students can study French and Spanish A Level, and AS.
French and Spanish follow the AQA A Level specification and are taught as linear two-year courses.
Course Features
Students benefit from:
- Weekly 30-minute conversation practice with a Foreign Language Assistant
- A strong focus on independent study and research
- Weekly monitored Independent Study Logs
- Opportunities to take part in educational trips abroad
Study & Progression
A Level languages develop advanced communication skills, cultural understanding and analytical thinking. They support progression to university and a wide range of careers involving languages, international communication and global awareness.
Exam Board: https://www.aqa.org.uk/subjects/languages
For more information, please contact the College here: