Winter 2015-16
Scotland’s National Centre for Languages Newsletter
European Day of Languages [ Welcome to the SCILT newsletter ]
Welcome to the SCILT newsletter
Editorial 02 SCILT News
British Academy Schools Dear colleagues 09 Language Awards
Welcome to the Winter 2015-16 edition of the European Day of Languages SCILT newsletter – and what a bumper edition 10 it is! With more articles than ever before, the newsletter is testament to the momentum that 12 News from local authorities the 1+2 approach is gaining across the country.
It’s particularly interesting to see so many 23 News from cultural organisations establishments working with business partners so that languages are at the heart of Developing 26 News from universities the Young Workforce. With the announcement from the CBI that over three quarters of British businesses need language skills among their 27 Partnerships beyond school employees*, it is more important than ever that
languages are considered as key employability SCILT Staff skills that will equip Scotland’s young people to 29 take their place in a global society.
At the University of Strathclyde, SCILT has a number of partnerships It is really wonderful to be part of the languages with key organisations in Scotland, UK and further afield. community at such an exciting time. What we have to remember is that behind all these success stories, there is an army of hardworking teachers who are making things happen and SCILT a generation of children and young people Scotland’s National Centre for Languages LH-232 Lord Hope Building who are benefitting from that. My warmest University of Strathclyde congratulations to you all! 141 St James Road Glasgow, G4 0LT
Tel: 0141 444 8163 Best wishes Email: [email protected]
Fhiona Fisher, Director Disclaimer - SCILT’s newsletter is published twice a year and contains contributions from schools, local authorities and cultural organisations. It provides a forum for contributors to share some of the interesting * Inspiring Growth: CBI/Pearson Education and skills survey 2015 work being carried out by the languages community across Scotland. SCILT, however, does not necessarily endorse or promote the practice described in these pages.
01 Scotland’s National Centre for Languages [ Winter 2015-16 ] [ SCILT News ]
SCILT News
Build that capacity! Train those trainers! ou have probably already heard The latest TTT programme embarked Learning as well as academic reading, Yof Education Scotland/SCILT’s on its third run with a week-long opportunities for networking and Train the Trainer (TTT) programme. Summer School in early July. Meanwhile, problem-solving. If not, then you should know that the participants from the previous two programme has big aims and lofty TTT cohorts have recently attended a Andrew O’Halloran, Dumfries & ambitions. Fhiona Fisher, Director of formative assessment event and are Galloway, said, ‘I can now see a way SCILT, explains: now working on Reflective Reports in forward to increase professionalism and their endeavour to achieve Professional thus better serve pupils in the long term, ‘The aim of Train the Trainer is to Recognition in leading learning in while consolidating the 1+2 approach.’ engage lead learners in designing, languages awarded by GTC Scotland. promoting and supporting the provision Sandra Coles, Aberdeenshire, said, of high quality professional learning For the Summer School, thirty nine ‘Train the Trainer has been very helpful. for teachers and effective language teachers from twenty one local I am really looking forward to becoming learning experiences for young authorities across Scotland came involved in this.’ people. This programme will put each to the University of Strathclyde city participant in an informed position centre campus. Between them, the While Summer School is over until with important roles in facilitating participants had knowledge and June 2016, the learning never really effective professional learning and in experience of learning and teaching stops, so watch this space for news of championing the creation of a climate French, Gaelic, German, Italian, Latin, Professional Recognition successes in Scotland where language skills make Russian, Spanish and Welsh. The that will be coming soon. a significant contribution to a fairer, jam-packed week included many smarter and more successful nation.’ practical ideas for Primary Language Lynne Jones, SCILT
www.scilt.org.uk 02 [ SCILT News ]
Cross-sector collaboration ollowing on from the Engage with Scotland and the Scottish Government, and social media. If you would like to be FStrathclyde event in May 2015, gathered to hold initial discussions on included in the regional network mailing list, SCILT has worked with colleagues future joint initiatives, some of which please contact us via [email protected]. from the University Council for Modern are led by SCILT, such as Business Languages Scotland (UCMLS) to help Breakfasts, Language Linking Global Find out more: set up regional cross-sector networks. Thinking, Mother Tongue Other Tongue Engage with Strathclyde The aims of the networks are two-fold: (1) poetry competition, and the Word Wizard - www.engage.strath.ac.uk/event/192 to offer teachers and 1+2 Development spelling competition. Each university also Officers the opportunity to meet with has a number of promotional initiatives Business Breakfasts - www.scilt.org.uk/ languages and education staff from particular to them, including the popular Business/BusinessBreakfasts/tabid/5242/ HE to plan joint promotional initiatives in Language Ambassador scheme. We also Default.aspx support of language learning and (2) considered how research and professional to collaborate on research or enquiry enquiry might develop within the region Language Linking Global Thinking projects. The overarching goal is to and the direction that future meetings will - www.scilt.org.uk/BeyondSchool/ support the implementation of the Scottish take. For example, we want to investigate LanguageLinkingGlobalThinking/ Government’s policy, ‘Language learning in possibilities of a) funding for individuals tabid/5388/Default.aspx Scotland: A 1+2 approach’. to work together on collaborative cross- sector research/enquiry to strengthen Mother Tongue Other Tongue Four regional hubs have been established: the teaching and learning of languages, - www.scilt.org.uk/MTOT201516/ North, Central, East and West. Inaugural and b) professional recognition and tabid/5255/Default.aspx meetings took place during September accreditation for any enquiry undertaken. in Aberdeen, Dundee, Edinburgh and Word Wizard - www.scilt.org.uk/s1s3/ Glasgow respectively. Staff from primary We intend to hold three meetings annually celebratinglanguages/wordwizard/ and secondary schools, FE and HE, PhD for each region, and SCILT will confirm tabid/4782/default.aspx students, as well as representatives from details and venues for the next meetings to the cultural organisations, Education be held in spring via the weekly ebulletin Hannah Doughty and Angela de Britos, SCILT
Language study beyond school
o you have students looking to further • Beginner and refresher language D or develop their language learning courses and modules at Scotland’s on leaving school? Make sure they know colleges about the Beyond School section of the • The gap year – opportunities to SCILT website. With useful information on study, work or volunteer abroad different language courses and options • The student voice – blogs, advice, available here in Scotland, there are also hints and tips from those who’ve links to UCAS and language courses UK- been there wide to help their selection process and the transition from school. The site also outlines the support Scottish universities can provide to teachers and The section includes advice and schools in their language teaching and The postcard is available for schools information on: staff professional development. to order for careers/language promotional events - • The benefits of language learning for So please make your language teaching www.scilt.org.uk/LearnersParents/ you and your career professionals, pupils and guidance staff Parentleaflet/tabid/1875/Default.aspx • Undergraduate language courses at aware of the Beyond School website. It’s Scottish and UK universities got their language needs covered! Sheila Gallacher, SCILT • Options for combining languages www.scilt.org.uk/BeyondSchool/ with other degree subjects tabid/3159/Default.aspx
03 Scotland’s National Centre for Languages [ Winter 2015-16 ] [ SCILT News ]
More and more NQTs in the mix! ere at SCILT Towers, it’s only • Lots of practical support for H December and the PDO team the development of talking and has already been invited by twice as listening, reading and writing as many local authorities as last year to well as language learning skills work with their latest cohort of newly • Plenty of ideas about making the qualified teachers. most of technologies • An overview of the policy, This year, professional learning ‘Language learning in Scotland: A programmes in East Ayrshire, East 1+2 approach’, related guidance Dunbartonshire, Inverclyde, Scottish and online support Borders, West Dunbartonshire and West • An exploration of progression and ‘Linking theory of language acquisition Lothian will include a SCILT element. assessment in Primary Language to practice – providing examples of Learning activities to do, how to differentiate these A bespoke programme is developed and resources to use.’ by SCILT in close consultation During any course, exemplification will with the Development Officer and/ be in the languages taught across the ‘Lots of great ideas and practical or NQT support officer from the authority schools. examples to implement straight away. local authority in question. SCILT Taught us as we should teach, led by Professional Development Officers will The main aim is to demonstrate how example.’ also endeavour to be as responsive a little language can go a long way, as possible to queries and issues to build confidence in PLL pedagogy For more information about NQT that arise during the sessions. The and encourage the development of opportunities, please contact programme for NQTs might be twilights a positive language learning ethos in [email protected]. or two full days and include some, or all classrooms and beyond. Previous NQT of the following: participants have said that: Lynne Jones, SCILT
Mother Tongue Other Tongue
Gaelic, Scots and even Braille from Edinburgh and Inverness saw over schools who have signed up already. fifty teachers leaving inspired and ready to take back some ideas and The broad aims of MTOT are to examples to look at with their own pupils celebrate and promote plurilingualism, who will then submit their work to the to promote the use of mother tongue competition. languages and to give all children and young people an opportunity to really The MTOT blog has started again giving his year sees Mother Tongue enjoy using their language learning in regular updates including resources, TOther Tongue (MTOT) being rolled a creative and expressive way. Pupils advice and practical ideas for poetry for out across Scotland after a very from P1 to S6 can enter poetry, raps, teachers (http://mtotscotland.blogspot. successful pilot in Glasgow City last rhymes or songs and have fun working co.uk/). Furthermore, we are thrilled year. The multilingual poetry competition collaboratively or individually. to be working in collaboration with the comprises two categories – ‘Mother Scottish Poetry Library who is sharing Tongue’, which asks non-native English In taking MTOT to a national level this its expertise and a wealth of resources speakers to write poetry in their mother year we offered four poetry workshops with us. tongue language, and ‘Other Tongue’, to primary and secondary teachers who which requires young people to write worked with Juliette Lee, a poet and We look forward to hearing and seeing poetry in the additional language they creative writer, for a half-day workshop the pupils’ work – be creative and are studying in school. As well as entries developing their own creativity, exploring have fun! in ‘foreign’ languages, we are looking poetry and the impact of the language forward to receiving entries in BSL, we use. The events in Glasgow, Dundee, Angela de Britos, SCILT
www.scilt.org.uk [ Leading on Languages ] 04 [ SCILT News ]
Regional learning events n May and June, SCILT and Education The presentations demonstrated how opportunities for secondary pupils to IScotland ran a successful series of some schools were improving uptake learn more than one language without regional learning events. Taking place of languages in the senior phase while time being taken away from the L2. in venues across the country, these others focused on creative ways of Saturday morning events welcomed successfully introducing a second It never fails to amaze us how many delegates representing 24 local additional language (L3) into the broad language teachers are willing to give up authorities and three independent general education. their own time to inform and empower schools. Each event aimed to support themselves. The delegates we met are teachers with the implementation of The professional discussions that all enthusiastic and powerful advocates ‘Language learning in Scotland: A 1+2 followed were extremely solution-focused for our subject and for the profession. approach’. as delegates looked for a common Feedback is telling us that more of these understanding of the recommendations events will be required as we continue to The presenters were all teachers and of the policy and shared possible ways progress towards 2020, so please keep Development Officers who were willing forward. Some of the ‘big issues’ were your eyes on the SCILT ebulletin – we and able to share their establishments’ around the availability of language could be in a place near you soon! story of how they are implementing training for primary teachers, cluster different aspects of the 1+2 approach. planning and ways of ensuring Fhiona Fisher, SCILT
Student teachers at UHI n September, some of SCILT’s further joint events over the coming Iprimary Professional Development session. These include Mother Tongue Officers travelled to Inverness to work Other Tongue poetry workshops with PGDE students from the University and a Business Brunch to promote of the Highlands and Islands to equip the relevance of languages in the them to play their part in delivering the workplace to S3-S6 pupils. More policy, ‘Language learning in Scotland: information will follow through the A 1+2 approach’. The sessions SCILT weekly ebulletin and social introduced the policy and the rationale media. behind it. They also provided an opportunity for the students to consider Angela de Britos, SCILT how and why we learn languages. Over the two days participants looked at the importance of setting language learning within a cultural context to make learning meaningful and explored the use of ICT and online resources to enhance teaching and learning. SCILT introduced the students to the wealth of resources available on the SCILT and Education Scotland websites to support them whilst in training and into the early stages of their career. Orkney. It was fantastic to work with such a wide variety of students over a The course was delivered at Inverness large geographical area. College and was shared via video conferencing with UHI students in The relationship between UHI and other UHI campuses: Argyle and Bute, SCILT is continuing to flourish and Moray, Shetland, Lews Castle and the two organisations will be holding
05 Scotland’s National Centre for Languages [ Winter 2015-16 ] [ SCILT News ]
Supporting British Council Modern Language Assistants in Scotland
Mentor teacher support sessions the current cohort of MLAs. This is on? We will have a mid-year review in considerably earlier than in previous December/January and will feed back In late August and early September years but in response to repeated our results. British Council Scotland and SCILT feedback from assistants. With 133 held a number of support sessions for assistants this year (a 20% increase MLAs and aspiring language teachers mentor teachers of Modern Language from the 2014 academic session) we Assistants (MLAs). We provided started off with the administrative We are trying to keep up the momentum examples of good practice and past details. We then launched into the now started in September and are now in the projects conducted by assistants, and famously uproarious session where process of arranging meetings between discussed how to make best use of assistants experience (1) what it feels MLAs and students on initial teacher the unique knowledge and skills that like to learn a new language (in this training courses. The aim is to enable language assistants bring with them. case Welsh) and (2) how to get meaning both groups to exchange views on their The feedback has been very positive across using visual, kinaesthetic and different language learning experiences and we hope to provide similar sessions contextualised clues, with an element and to explore ways of motivating again next year. of fun. In the afternoon, there were reluctant language learners. At the language-specific sessions led by same time it will provide MLAs with the MLA induction and training day staff from the cultural organisations opportunity to meet young Scottish (Institut Français, Goethe-Institut, people who are interested in language On 11 September 2015 British and Consejería) where the assistants learning! Council Scotland and SCILT held a considered how they would put their full-day induction and training day for learning into practice. How will they get Hannah Doughty, SCILT
Transition from the Senior Phase into Higher Education
CILT has delivered a number of Advanced Higher in a language. Increasing the knowledge and S workshops to language lecturers Lecturers were able to quiz me on the understanding of what lecturers are at Higher Education Institutions (HEI) new qualifications, the focus on skills seeking to deliver to their first year across Scotland. With immense efforts development, the varied approaches to languages students is as important and work going into the transition assessment and content studied during for secondary teachers as it is vital from primary to secondary, it seemed language courses in Scottish secondary for lecturers to gain an insight into the increasingly important to focus on schools. opportunities and constraints of teaching learners leaving school and entering languages in the Senior Phase. With university to study languages as part of The overwhelming feedback from the work that SCILT and the University their degree. lecturers was very positive and Council for Modern Languages in they were keen to further develop Scotland are driving to promote As a languages teacher, I felt that I the dialogue between schools and languages and to facilitate collaboration, did not know a lot about the courses universities. However, lecturers reported I am optimistic that language learners and content studied at university in that Scottish learners beginning will find transition into Higher Education the first year of a degree. Delivering university are still lacking in confidence more seamless. Especially with such this workshop in five HEIs across the and often in language competence. dedicated teachers and HEI lecturers country allowed me to gather information They claimed that skills levels varied passionate about language learning in and feedback from lecturers on the greatly even amongst learners whose Scotland – in school and beyond! performance of Scottish learners who Higher or Advanced Higher grades are entered university with a Higher or an the same. Petra McLay, SCILT
www.scilt.org.uk [ Leading on Languages ] 06 [ SCILT News ]
Word Wizard Final 2014-15 n 29 May 2015 pupils, parents O and teachers gathered at the Scottish Parliament for the national final of the multilingual spelling competition Word Wizard.
The competition launched across the country in November 2014 and this year featured a semi-final for the first time. 174 pupils from 15 local authorities and independent schools attended the University of Strathclyde in March and battled it out for a place at the prestigious National Final.
The final brought together 42 pupils representing nine local authorities and independent schools. Finalists competed in the Members’ Room and demonstrated great skill in French, Gaelic, German, Mandarin and Spanish.
Now in its third year, Scotland’s National Centre for Languages and Confucius Institute for Scotland’s Schools, in partnership with University of St Andrews, are proud to announce the return of Word Wizard for session 2015-16! This challenging competition tests pupils’ vocabulary, spelling and pronunciation skills and provides motivation to further their own language learning.
Feedback from Word Wizard 2014-15 included:
‘The competition has given me the opportunity to learn new words, meet ‘Widened knowledge of vocabulary in a fun way. Pupils’ ability to spell in the target new friends and have fun.’ (Pupil) language greatly improved. Raised the profile of languages in the school.’ (Teacher)
‘I most enjoyed the experience of ‘Encouraged pupils to involve more speaking in the target language.’ (Teacher) learning useful new vocabulary.’ (Pupil) ‘Great for motivating pupils to study languages. Raises the profile of languages ‘I think Word Wizard has been a within the school and authority. Makes vocabulary learning fun.’ (Teacher) wonderful opportunity and fantastic experience which has allowed me to See the full list of winners and photos from the 2014-15 final on our website further develop my language.’ (Pupil) - http://bit.ly/WWFinal2015
Alice Lister, SCILT
07 Scotland’s National Centre for Languages [ Winter 2015-16 ] [ SCILT News ]
Language Show Live Scotland Keep in touch with industry developments at Scotland’s most exciting event for languages
ollowing the continued success Free educational seminars Fof Europe’s most longstanding We’ve developed an extensive CLPL language event, which has been held in certified seminar programme dedicated London for the past 27 years, Language to school leaders and teachers of all Show Live will be opening its doors to levels. Sessions are free to attend and Glasgow on 11-12 March 2016 for two will provide you with great ideas to take inspirational days packed with language back to the classroom. classes, free educational seminars, talks and cultural performances in an Career advice incredible celebration of languages. At the show you’ll be able to meet industry experts and gain new With Scotland working towards the insight and advice to help grow your challenging 1+2 approach to language teaching career. Plus, if you’re looking learning, there has never been a better for a career change, you’ll have the time for teachers to focus on their opportunity to meet recruiters, get professional development. Languages CV advice and attend free talks in the are more than just a useful skill for Careers Forum. communicating: they are an essential All this and much more, Scotland’s tool for cultural understanding, Language products, latest biggest event for people passionate promoting trade and showcasing the technologies, show offers and more… about languages is free to attend. nation on an international stage. Find all teaching resources under one roof and take advantage of show- Language Show Live Scotland will take At Language Show Live Scotland you’ll only special offers from 100 leading place at the SECC in Glasgow on 11-12 find all the advice, ideas and resources companies exhibiting at the show. March 2016. you need to feel confident in teaching Furthermore, you’ll be able to try out languages while making the learning the latest language technology and get To find out more and keep up to date process more fun and engaging for your up-to-date with all the recent changes with the latest news, join our mailing students. in the language industry whilst building list - www.languageshowlive.co.uk/ up your network as you interact with scotlandmailinglist thousands of other language teachers just like you. Stefania Fedele, Language Show Live
www.scilt.org.uk [ Leading on Languages ] 08 [ British Academy Schools Language Awards ]
British Academy Schools Language Awards
BASLA 2015: Innovation, creativity, sustainability and addressing disadvantage in language learning in the Senior Phase and beyond
he number of applications for School, St John’s RC High School and aims to develop the employability Tthe British Academy Schools Wellington School. skills of 100 students aged 14-17, Languages Award from mainstream and encourage them to recognise the and supplementary schools in Scotland Supplementary schools perform a relevance of studying both business has risen for the third year in a row. vital role in developing the language and languages. Professor Nigel Vincent, Fellow of the skills of children from multilingual British Academy, introduces the awards: backgrounds. This year, Polish (Polish Bellahouston Academy’s project School Glasgow CIC) and Russian (RCS ‘Promoting Glasgow as a tourist ‘The [British] Academy believes Haven, Glasgow and North Lanarkshire; destination’ was also highly commended that learning foreign languages has SLOVO Education and Support Centre, by the BASLA judging panel. important benefits not only for the Aberdeen) were represented. students themselves, but also for the UK All 14 prize-winning projects from economy and wider society. The Awards In the final adjudication, seven around the country are considered for are designed to encourage schools mainstream and seven supplementary the national British Schools Languages and colleges to implement imaginative category winners from seven parts of Award. At the awards ceremony in and effective ways of improving take up the UK were each awarded prize money London in November, one mainstream and enthusiasm for language learning of £4000. and one supplementary project will be beyond the age of 16, and to address announced as overall BASLA winners. the social imbalance in the profile of In Scotland, the Polish School Glasgow These projects will be awarded an language learners at higher levels.’ CIC’s project won the supplementary additional £2000 in prize money. category. Their ‘Children’s Radio’ Proposals from mainstream schools project trains secondary pupils to Do you think your school could be in seeking to increase uptake for become radio presenters preparing the running next time round? BASLA languages in S5 and S6 included and broadcasting a weekly radio show 2016 will open in the new year. In the innovative business links, international in Polish. Meanwhile, St John’s RC High meantime for more information go to exchanges, tourism and social media School in Dundee won the mainstream the BASLA website - www.britac.ac.uk/ from Bellahouston Academy, Cumnock category. In partnership with the policy/BASLAs.cfm. Academy, Kirkwall Grammar School, University of Dundee, the ‘Business and Montrose Academy, John Ogilvie’s High Languages in the Digital World’ project Lynne Jones, SCILT
09 Scotland’s National Centre for Languages [ Winter 2015-16 ] [ European Day of Languages ]
European Day of Languages
Aberdeen City Bishopbriggs Crown Schools Academy Primary
berdeen City Schools celebrated A European Day of Languages 2015 with a quiz! P6 pupils from across the city took part in the event held at Aberdeen Beach Ballroom on Friday 25 September 2015. Questions tested pupils’ knowledge of European food, celebrities, animals and flags. The event was supported by language students from Aberdeen University and the 2015 German Educational Trainee students based in Aberdeen schools. 1 pupils at Bishopbriggs Academy uropean Day of Languages 2015 Ruth Gould from Europe Direct and Smarked European Day of E was an opportunity for each Hazlehead Academy pupil, Shuya Zuo, Languages with a celebratory event in class at Crown Primary in Inverness to collated the questions. the assembly hall. Pupils participated investigate a different country. in a range of activities which aimed to Pupils moved between games set out celebrate the diverse languages spoken P1 really embraced the culture of Italy! across four stations: Italian ‘Bingo’, across Europe. In the home corner an Italian restaurant German ‘Hangman’, Spanish ‘Pin the appeared, pupils made an Italian flag Country’ and French ‘Colours corners’. In a sorting game, pupils worked in and feasted on pizzas! The language students monitored the teams to sort 27 languages into 24 games and pupils rotated to a new official European languages and identify Parents visited classes in the school to station at the blow of a whistle. After a three non-European languages. A share their home language and read to break, pupils competed in teams of four tongue twister activity tested pupils’ pupils. Older pupils shared stories in for the ‘Big Quiz’. pronunciation skills as they tried to get their home language with some of the their tongues around twisters in English, younger classes. Pupils from Bramble Brae Primary, French and Spanish. The music quiz Dyce Primary, Hazelhead Primary, was an opportunity for pupils to hear In P5/6 the children looked at the Seaton Primary, St Peter’s Primary and tracks from different European countries designs of Greek pottery and spent the Westpark Primary took part in the event. and try to identify which language was morning researching different aspects being sung. of Greece, including gods, numbers, Teachers and pupils enjoyed the the alphabet, ancient and modern opportunity to have fun while practising Finally, and most popular of all, a selfie aspects. They then created their own languages. booth encouraged pupils to dress pots from clay. themselves in traditional dress from Marie-Claire Lyon, Aberdeen City various European countries. All classes across the school learnt a few key phrases in their country’s Paul Hope, Bishopbriggs Academy language.
Suzanne Dunbar, Crown Primary
www.scilt.org.uk [ Leading on Languages ] 10 [ European Day of Languages ]
Sgoil Phaibil goil Phaibil had a wonderful restaurants Stepping Stone, Temple Scelebration of European Day of View, Langass Lodge, Hamersay House Languages 2015. Pupils took part in a and Lochmaddy Hotel. Hamersay range of engaging activities throughout House Hotel was kind enough to send the day and celebrated with great their Head Chef, Joe Sinclair, who enthusiasm. served lunch to all of our pupils.
Children came to school dressed in an The dining hall was decorated with authentic European national costume. European flags and photographs of All 28 European Union countries were famous landmarks were displayed well represented. around the hall. Some of the famous landmarks had been created earlier by Our activities included: our pupils using newspapers.
• European Union mapping skills The highlight of the day was when all • European landmarks pupils sang the well-known fairy tale, • Gaelic singing ‘The Three Little Pigs’ in French to the • Famous European artists tune of Lady Gaga’s song, Poker Face. • European greetings • European national dress game All pupils received a European ‘goodie bag’ containing European items. A fun At lunch time all our pupils were and productive learning experience was encouraged to sample some delicious had by all… including the staff. European dishes which had been prepared and donated by local Sarah Jane MacSween, Sgoil Phaibil
11 Scotland’s National Centre for Languages [ Winter 2015-16 ] [ News from Local Authorities ]
Local Authorities Aberdeen City Council schools’ twinning
Clermont-Ferrand in France February 2015 and was the result of an earlier visit to Harlaw Academy by Manor Park Primary hosted 20 pupils Regensburg teachers. from the école élementaire Nestor Perret, Clermont-Ferrand, in June 2015. This The group had an animated, bilingual visit was the return part of a successful debate about possible cross-curricular exchange. projects involving languages, business studies, English, PSE, art and music. The pupils, accompanied by three of As a result, pupils will be designing a their teachers, had a busy programme of logo, writing articles, interviewing staff outdoor and school-based activities, and and much more in the course of the on the Friday morning they all gathered coming year. The two schools have a lot in the school hall to take part in an of common factors and teachers are inspiring assembly in which Scottish and confident this will be a good starting French pupils danced and sang together. point for an educational partnership The two pupils from Kincorth are The exchange was a great opportunity project. the Cultural and Deputy Cultural for the Scottish and French pupils to Ambassadors within the school. They spend time with each other and learn Two senior pupils and two members spent time at the Gymnasium and about one another’s lives and culture. of staff from Kincorth Academy stayed with exchange partners. They The French group left having formed visited Albertus Magnus Gymnasium were involved in discussions with the new, lasting friendships. in Germany with the aim of setting up school and Director of Education on The ‘Green Sing’ was celebrated by four a formal exchange programme. The establishing the exchange programme. Aberdeen City primary schools on Friday visit took place in October 2014 at the Two teachers from Kincorth are now 19 June. Pupils from Seaton, Abbotswell, invitation of the Gymnasium. This visit leading this programme and in October St Joseph’s and Mile End primaries sang followed Johanna Bayer-Riepl’s visit to 2015 staff at Kincorth Academy were in chorus with their French counterparts. Aberdeen. The focus of the exchange delighted to host the first visit from Singing took place at 2pm in Aberdeen programme will be culture, history and German students. The visitors enjoyed a and simultaneously in Clermont-Ferrand, English and involve cross-curricular programme in school. where it was 3pm. St Joseph’s Primary projects as well as an annual students’ managed to establish a live link with their exchange. Marie-Claire Lyon, Aberdeen City Council partners in France.
The event was organised by Modern Languages Curriculum Officers in Clermont-Ferrand and coincided with the annual French celebration, ‘Fête de la Musique’. This year’s theme was nature and as well as joining in with the singing, schools created themed displays. A booklet and CD have been collated and issued to the participating schools. The event was enjoyed by all those taking part and we hope that more schools will be singing in tune next year!
Regensburg in Germany
A delegation from Harlaw Academy visited Von Müller Gymnasium in Regensburg, Germany with the aim of establishing a partnership between the two schools. This visit took place in
www.scilt.org.uk [ Leading on Languages ] 12 [ News from Local Authorities ]
Bringing Italian alive in the classroom ast year I taught a P7 class at St week and months of the year and interdisciplinary approach, using L Helen’s Primary in Condorrat. The Italian just became another form for me resources from Education Scotland, cluster language is Italian and all upper to communicate with the children and Linguascope, Coffee Break Italian and school classes have a discrete Italian for the children to communicate with SCILT. This gave me various options for lesson each week, lasting around an hour. their peers. introducing and consolidating language As well as maintaining this formal aspect and knowledge. I quickly realised that of learning, I also incorporated chunks of Planning was flexible and some of it was important to incorporate learning Italian throughout the school day. the themes came about due to the into relevant, everyday situations, using children’s curiosity or interest in small manageable steps, as well as As a result, children were encouraged particular aspects of Italian language instil in the children the importance of to greet me and all other visitors to our or culture. I also linked learning to culture and communication. Lessons class in Italian. The register was taken areas the children were experiencing were stimulating and simple in order in Italian and we have started prayers in in other parts of the curriculum. For to integrate language teaching into Italian too. By the end of the year many instance, during the lead up to Shrove our busy school day. I structured it in basic prayers were being said in Italian. Tuesday we discussed healthy eating a way that motivated and challenged ‘Please’, ‘thank you’ and a variety of in Italian and made pancakes using the children but, most importantly, simple commands were all spoken in only Italian. This led to comparisons taught them the language they Italian and very soon it became routine with the Mediterranean diet and how needed to know. I was determined to and easy to change from English to feast days are celebrated in Italy. We bring language learning alive in the Italian. also linked with a school in Italy, ‘Don classroom! Domenico Ferri’. I taught the children a variety of fun Gabriella Seaver, St Helen’s Primary songs to remember the days of the I aimed to provide lessons using an School
Business language links at Woodmill High School n 30 September Outplay of a company. Of specific interest was and a prize will be given for the best. O Entertainment visited the Modern Thomas’ emphasis on the benefits of Languages Department at Woodmill cultural knowledge when working with This project was part of SCILT’s High School in Dunfermline. Outplay different nationalities in an organisation. Business Language Champions. Entertainment is a social games Thomas was also keen to convey the If you want to know more about company based in Dundee. The visit message that young people should look the scheme, please visit the SCILT was part of SCILT’s Business Language at pursuing a career that is a passion for website (www.scilt.org.uk/Business/ Champions scheme. them and also that learning a language Linkinglanguagesandbusiness.aspx). is something that opens doors in today’s If you are interested in developing a Outplay Entertainment produces games global market. similar programme in your school, for smartphones and tablets such as please contact the SCILT team Angry Birds Pop, Mystery Match and Pupils agreed that Outplay’s visit was ([email protected]). Alien Creeps. They have recently added a great success. Thomas Cameron, S3 German and French versions of their pupil said, ‘I thought it was good to learn Janet Monaghan, Woodmill High School English language games. about how languages could help you get a job and it gave me a new perspective Thomas Hulvershorn, Analytical on looking at languages.’ Manager with Outplay, spoke to S3 French and German students who are The visit will be followed up over the about to embark on their Media theme. coming months with a project for pupils He talked about the type of games where they will work in teams to produce his company produces, the specific a flyer in either French or German for jobs within the company and the role one of Outplay’s current games. All languages can have in the development submissions will be judged by Outplay
13 Scotland’s National Centre for Languages [ Winter 2015-16 ] [ News from Local Authorities ]
Developing the young workforce in Carnoustie High School CILT’s enthusiastic support brought economic importance of tourism Sspeakers from a wide range of in Scotland and the employment business sectors to Carnoustie High opportunities within it, as well as the value School on 18 June to talk about the of language skills in this sector. Lucy importance of language skills in their Wakefield from Dundee Science Centre field of work. This event aimed to set illustrated how STEM and language skills ‘Languages for life and work’ in a relevant can be an empowering combination. Japanese and German. Pupils and staff context for the new S3 pupils who are all Stewart Miller vividly described Raptors concluded that it was an informative, working to achieve the SQA award. International’s global conservation stimulating and enjoyable morning. projects, while his stunning eagle owl, the SCILT Professional Development Officers, star of the day, demonstrated amusing Exciting longer-term business links Meryl James and Janette Kelso, opened bird communication. Ben Haldane, a were established through this event. the event by demonstrating the value recent returnee from a Project Trust year All S3 pupils are about to undertake an of language skills in all aspects of life. abroad, closed the event on a high note, international marketing competition with Learners were then excited to meet local fascinating everyone with his command of Glamis Castle. Later in the year, learners in top game designer Russell Kay, one of a Namibian language. science and languages will track eastern the original creators of ‘Grand Theft Auto’. imperial eagles with Raptors International. Russell explained the linguistic and cultural The S3 learners also chose workshops challenges of developing computer games led by pupils and teachers from across If you would like support from SCILT to for the international market. the school community and by Ray Chenrui organise a similar event in your school, of J&D Wilkie, Kirriemuir. The workshops please contact SCILT ([email protected]). Glamis Castle guides, Chimene Samson included British Sign Language, team and Pauline Cawdery, stressed the communication, Polish, Greek, Mandarin, Isabelle Gall, Carnoustie High School
whose interesting sessions covered Future Pathways – languages the variety of language study options available as well as their experiences on event at Balfron High School their gap years studying abroad.
n 9 October 2015, pupils in S3-S6 Positive comments like, ‘I now realise O at Balfron High School abandoned how important languages could be their usual morning timetable. They for my career,’ and ‘I got to hear about were immersed in activities to help them the ways languages are used in understand the value of languages business which was really interesting,’ and hopefully inspire them to choose demonstrated the overall enthusiasm for languages for further study. the morning.
With the growing awareness of the This event was part of a wider initiative importance of language learning for at Balfron High School to encourage Scottish young people and as part of pupils to consider their Future Pathways, developing a young workforce, Ruth businesses about how important preparing them to become part of a Wood, Head of Modern Languages at language and cultural understanding highly competent Scottish workforce. Balfron High, planned the promotional were to the success of their business. event for students, which would be a day Businesses included Pernod Ricard, If you would like support from SCILT to to remember. Ruth was supported by Glengoyne Distillery and the Scottish organise a similar event in your school, SCILT. Tourist Guides Association. The young please contact SCILT (scilt@strath. people also had the opportunity to ac.uk). Learners attended a variety of hear from language ambassadors from informative sessions from different Strathclyde and Stirling Universities, Amanda Lyons, SCILT
www.scilt.org.uk [ Leading on Languages ] 14 [ News from Local Authorities ]
Il était une fois… l était une fois… in Perth and Kinross classroom and take the wider school providing an enriching opportunity for I Council, some primary children community with us on our 1+2 journey, families and children to learn French visited their local community library we are developing French storytelling together in an informal and relaxed to hear a story told in French. The sessions for children and families in way. Our French storytelling model traditional tale was brought to life their local community libraries across is enabling language learning to be through song, dance and a game or Perth and Kinross. accessible and inclusive. two in French. Much fun was had by all! This French family storytelling initiative Our aspiration is becoming a reality ‘Language learning in Scotland: A was piloted in Strathearn Community due to partnership working with the 1+2 approach’ highlights the need Library in Crieff. Regular Saturday Insitut Français d’Ecossse, who has to ‘normalise language learning’. It is morning sessions delivered by local been involved in training community with this in mind that Perth and Kinross volunteers are now a regular feature. A volunteers. It is thanks to the Education and Children’s Services launch at Lochleven Library is imminent commitment from these volunteers, have been working in partnership and then the initiative will be rolled out families and local libraries that this with our Culture and Community in other community libraries across initiative is emerging and is breaking colleagues towards creating a culture Perth and Kinross. down barriers to language learning. of languages for children in and beyond their school environment. In Feedback from children and families Caroline Gordon, Perth and Kinross order to enhance learning beyond the tells us that storytelling sessions are Council
Languages and careers in South Ayrshire
3 pupils in South Ayrshire Throughout the day pupils were able to The event was a great success and S celebrated European Day of browse the marketplace. They talked hopefully the experience has opened the Languages at Queen Margaret Academy to various businesses which require eyes of our learners to the importance on 22 September 2015. The event was language skills in their employees. of learning a language and the impact it organised by Fiona Normansell, Principal These companies outlined the benefits can have on their future. Teacher of Modern Languages at of language skills and how they use Carrick Academy, Janette Kelso of SCILT, languages in their workplace. Companies If you would like support from SCILT to Tony McCafferty of Ayrshire Chamber included Ski Supreme, Clansman organise a similar event in your school of Commerce and Ruth Collins from Dynamics, Barclays and Articulate. or local authority, please contact SCILT Developing Scotland’s Workforce. The ([email protected]). aim was to raise the profile of languages Pupils also had the opportunity to and encourage pupils to consider taking visit two workshops led by Clansman Lynsey Livingstone, South Ayrshire Council a language in the Senior Phase. Four Dynamics, Barclays, Ski Supreme, schools attended in the morning and four Prestwick Airport, Scottish Power, Egger in the afternoon. Forestry, Dalamo and Radio Lingua. Feedback from pupils included: The event consisted of talks, workshops and a business marketplace. ‘I’m interested in engineering and it was The event opened and closed with really useful to talk to an engineering two inspirational talks, one from Mark company about why having another Pentleton of Radio Lingua and the other language is really important… I am from James Brodie of the British China definitely going to choose to do a Council, who talked about their passion language in S5/S6 now!’ for languages and the importance of language skills to their business ‘I didn’t realise all these companies were success. Janette Kelso from SCILT also out there and how important having spoke about the value of language another language has been to their learning. business.’
15 Scotland’s National Centre for Languages [ Winter 2015-16 ] [ News from Local Authorities ]
Languages for business at Galashiels Academy s part of European Day of Languages to embrace language learning. Business being able to communicate in another A on 23 September, pupils in S3 at Studies lessons were used to help them language can be for sportsmen and Galashiels Academy abandoned their learn about employment opportunities in women playing at an international level. usual timetable and immersed themselves language based professions and show just in a range of language-related activities. how highly businesses value employees Pupils also took time to reflect on the with language skills. current humanitarian crisis in Syria, The day was arranged by Modern thinking about how helpful language could Languages Principal Teacher, Cedric Professor Nik Gisborne from the University be in terms of welcoming any refugees Raffier who said, ‘With the growing of Edinburgh introduced them to the chosen to relocate to the Scottish Borders. awareness of the importance of language world of linguistics, exploring different learning for Scottish young people and as sound patterns and giving them the Cedric continues, ‘Overall, it was a very part of developing our young workforce, opportunity to create new sounds to help worthwhile experience for all the pupils European Day of Languages was an them improve their language skills. Beth who took part and I hope they went away ideal opportunity for us to encourage Tope from local business ProStrakan gave from it with a broader understanding of young people to consider the relevance informative and interactive workshops the importance that language plays in of languages, not only for their personal on how important language and cultural communication, both at a personal and development, but also in terms of further understanding are to the success of professional level, and with some idea of education and future career opportunities’. a business with an international client taking their language learning further as base. Rugby star Gregor Townsend was they progress with their education.’ Professional Development Officers from a popular speaker when he came to talk SCILT held sessions on encouraging pupils about his experiences, sharing how useful Emma Sowerby, Scottish Borders Council
Languages for Life and Work at Broughton High School: Promoting languages beyond BGE roughton High School features in a students took part in a range of different imagined. All have developed their B collection of case studies published workshops at the hotel – a tour of the communication and interpersonal skills by Education Scotland, which highlight hotel, CV writing, presentation skills and and many were forced to move out of key features common to languages Chinese business etiquette. In return, our their comfort zone. As a result, five of departments where languages flourish students taught basic Chinese to staff. the 14 students have chosen to study beyond BGE. This year, the school Chinese in S4. We aim to build on this offered the new Languages for Life and ‘Between October and February, these success in the years to come through Work Award to S3 pupils in Chinese with students took part in a competition to continued links with the Hilton.’ the aim of allowing pupils more time produce an information leaflet for Chinese to assimilate the language. The school guests. The winning leaflet will be Find out more about some of the linked to a local business which helped available from the hotel reception. strategies Broughton High School uses to to support the unit ‘Building your own promote languages in the Senior Phase employability skills’. ‘In March, hotel staff visited Broughton on the Education Scotland website to deliver a workshop on interview skills. - http://bit.ly/ESLangsinSP. Pam Tosh from Broughton High School Students practised and took part in an describes their experiences: interview with a hotel employee and this Pam Tosh, Broughton High School ‘Fourteen students chose our S3 Chinese performance became evidence for the elective following short taster classes in final unit of their Award. S2. The students learn about Chinese language and culture and also receive ‘Student feedback on the experience the Languages for Life and Work Award was overwhelmingly positive. It taught at SCQF level 3. They may, should they them important skills for the future as choose to, progress to National 4 in S4. well as clarifying and demystifying the ‘This session, with the help of SCILT, we recruitment process. Several commented established a business link with the Hilton on the usefulness of the CV writing Hotel at Edinburgh Airport. In October, workshop and the fact that the process at the launch of the partnership, our was more straightforward than they
www.scilt.org.uk [ Leading on Languages ] 16 [ News from Local Authorities ]
Linking languages and work at Glenwood High School he Scottish Government’s ambitious SCILT has been working with a T policy, ‘Language learning in number of schools across the country Scotland: A 1+2 approach’ arrives at to facilitate links with businesses a time when globally the demand for and promote to pupils the value of language skills is expanding. SCILT’s languages in the workplace. SCILT Business Language Champions (BLC) recently visited Glenwood High scheme helps schools and businesses School to deliver an event to raise to build partnerships through awareness amongst S3 pupils about will have the opportunity to discuss languages to equip young people with the relevance of languages and the importance of languages with the international communication and the opportunities they can bring. At staff from the hotel, look at CVs and employability skills that they will need this event, SCILT was joined by Ian employability skills and be given a for their future careers. Rankin, president of the Scottish project to complete. We are certain Rugby Union, who gave an insight into this will really inspire the pupils and how even a little language can go a will establish a real-life context for long way. their language learning.
Following on from this, pupils from This project was part of SCILT’s Glenwood attended a hospitality Business Language Champions. careers event at Gleneagles Hotel If you want to know more about and Resort which demonstrated how the scheme, please visit the SCILT language skills are vital within this website (www.scilt.org.uk/Business/ sector. The event really raised pupils’ Linkinglanguagesandbusiness.aspx). awareness of the wide variety of jobs in hospitality, and staff and pupils If you are interested in developing were all impressed by the enthusiasm a similar programme in your school, of the hotel staff who led the event. please contact the SCILT team ([email protected]). Staff and pupils from Glenwood are now looking forward to visiting the Old Dawn Myles, Glenwood High School Course Hotel, St Andrews, where they
Mathématiques sans Frontières 2015 he 2015 Mathématiques sans Frontières T competition saw 45 teams from 29 schools take part. The competition was jointly organised by North Lanarkshire Council and Heriot-Watt University. 23 schools entered a team of S5 pupils and this was is the highest number of S5 teams in the competition for many years.
The winning S4 and S5 teams were from The High School of Glasgow! The overall winning team was the S4 entry from The High School of Glasgow.
Robert Dalzell, North Lanarkshire Council
17 Scotland’s National Centre for Languages [ Winter 2015-16 ] [ News from Local Authorities ]
Midlothian French Modern Language Assistants ollowing the success of our French ‘What a pleasant start! I was most a foreigner it can be hard to understand FModern Language Assistant (MLA), surprised with people are so genuinely at first, but sounds just so nice and lovely Pauline Bourbigot, in our pilot schools kind and helpful here! Of course, the it always makes me smile! I love it!’ – Lisa last year, Midlothian has made the bold Scots are known for being like that, but Verbeke decision to employ six French MLAs it is quite a change for me. Coming from this year. The MLAs are working in the the region of Paris, where the clichés of ‘I hope that by the end of my time here in additional schools that have joined the Parisians being rude and always in hurry Scotland, I will get that lovely accent! I am implementation of ‘Language learning in are somewhat true, what a delight to meet already working with the children on an Scotland: A 1+2 approach’. people like you!’ – Stéphanie Perera agreement, I teach them French, but they have to teach me some Scottish words’ – We are looking forward to building on ‘On the first week, I was just here to watch Anne Arcusa the positive impact Pauline had on our how they work and understand how a pupils’ learning. The children loved Scottish school works. I met a lot of nice As a result of her experience in Midlothian meeting a real French person and finding teachers, and almost all the children I schools, Pauline found her vocation and out more about her culture. Creative and was going to work with. They were (and is now training at Glasgow University to innovative activities on pronunciation still are) very curious, asking me what I become a secondary language teacher. and culture resulted in fun learning and call this or that, or most of the time how We are looking forward to another teaching experiences. We are looking to I pronounce their name in French. It is successful year with Stéphanie, Mégann, drive the 1+2 approach forward by using very interesting for me to work with them Albane, Lisa and Anne. this year’s MLAs to increase teachers’ because they are very inquisitive, and confidence and capacity as well as pupil have a pure Scottish accent, which I find Margaret Ballantyne, Midlothian Council engagement with languages. lovely.’ – Mégann Thomas
This year’s MLAs completed a diary of ‘They are surprised to see a REAL French their first impressions and experiences, person. Some of them don’t believe that’s and some excerpts are listed below: real. A child about P1 has asked me, what planet do you come from?’ – Albane ‘At the beginning, I did not understand the Prigent Decherf pronunciation of the name, Edinburgh. I did not know that we pronounce “a” at the ‘We learn and hear new words every day end of this name! I was very surprised!’ and the Scottish accent is certainly one of - Amélie Kiefer the best accents you could ever hear! For
Mathématiques sans My trip to Kinloch Anderson kilt making shop Frontières 2015 n 14 September 2015, my teacher of kilt-making and how it is reaching the strongly recommend getting involved in this OMrs Whitelaw and I visited Kinloch rest of the world especially China, Korea project. This is a great opportunity to find Anderson kilt making shop to see how and Japan. I was stunned to find out out about other cultures and widen your the Scottish tradition of making kilts how this family shop could become so horizons. is influencing the rest of the world, popular in the Far East. I never knew that particularly East Asia. so much material is needed to make a kilt. This project was part of SCILT’s Business As part of our visit we had a video chat Language Champions. If you want to know It was a wet day and the rain was very with a member of Kinloch Anderson’s kilt more about the scheme, please visit the strong but I was really looking forward makers who is based in Shanghai. The SCILT website (www.scilt.org.uk/Business/ to the experience of visiting Kinloch group found out about studying abroad Linkinglanguagesandbusiness.aspx). If Anderson. Once I arrived, I met a few and asked questions about what it is like you are interested in developing a similar students from another school. I had already to work there. It showed how important programme in your school, please contact met them on my immersion summer the link between business and languages the SCILT team ([email protected]). course in China. The management team is in today’s world. It was an astounding at Kinloch Anderson explained the history experience for me to visit the shop and I Tina Askari, Leith Academy
www.scilt.org.uk [ Leading on Languages ] 18 [ News from Local Authorities ]
South Ayrshire Council success at Scottish Learning Festival Our stand promoting Primary Language where they make initial visits, present to Learning and our steps to implement the staff, share resources and provide model policy, ‘Language learning in Scotland: A teaching lessons within all stages of 1+2 approach’ was very well received last the schools. This is aimed at improving month at the Scottish Learning Festival. non-specialist staff confidence as well as Many practitioners were asking questions ensuring continuity across our authority. about embedding L2 languages in our After sharing a lot of information about Scottish classrooms and it was exciting We ran the local authority stand their learning and singing French songs to feel the general buzz for language along with two P4 pupils from Alloway to the Minister, they were thrilled to see learning! Primary School and two P7 pupils pictures on her Twitter feed! Dr Alasdair from Kincaidston Primary School. The Allan MSP came to speak to the children South Ayrshire Council has adopted children were certainly living proof of on the Thursday and was very pleased to a hands-on approach, employing 10 how successful our learners are. They see the enthusiasm shown for language Development Officers for a day each were delighted on Wednesday when learning. this session. The Development Officers Angela Constance MSP took the time to have been paired with cluster schools visit the stall and talk to them in French. Fiona Gilligan, South Ayrshire Council
Spotlight on Success: Aimee Beth Love and Greenfaulds High School simple phrases. She continued with French she handled an emergency for one of her from P5-S1 but admits that, as unfortunately fellow pupils when a passport was lost. some young people do, she lost interest in the subject around this time. However, Her experience of languages has been she was reinvigorated and inspired by further enriched by family trips to Mexico her experience in S2 French to progress and the Dominican Republic during which her language learning and take beginner time she practised speaking Spanish at Spanish. She enjoyed the dynamic every opportunity. approach to lessons taken by teachers and the opportunity to take part in fun language The highlight of Aimee’s Spanish learning activities and games. This was a real was working with the Chilean language imee Beth Love is a sixth year pupil turning point for her and the inclusion of assistant, who was an invaluable cultural A at Greenfaulds High School in games, team work and active participation resource. Cumbernauld. Last year she sat Highers in lessons meant she began to really enjoy in maths, chemistry, biology, English and her language learning. The competitive Aimee has a good piece of advice for Spanish and managed the tremendous element of lessons is obviously a hit with all pupils studying a language, to pay achievement of full marks in Higher her and her fellow pupils and she has been attention! She says, ‘lessons go so much Spanish. This year, she continues her described as ‘La Reina de la Gramática’ better when pupils listen to what the studies with the Science Baccalaureate and after their time trial grammar tests. teacher is saying and work hard’. She also the units in Advanced Higher Spanish. advises that pupils should get involved in The school has supported Aimee’s everything they can to make the most of She is a great example of someone who language learning with an incredible trip to their language studies at school. realises the importance of a language, Mexico. She took part in a volunteer project alongside the in-depth study of the in the Mexican jungle, participating in a Congratulations to Aimee and the other sciences. survey of birds and wildlife there. She was pupils who received full marks in their able to use classroom knowledge in a real Higher Spanish exam! Aimee began her language learning with life context and was relied on by her fellow Spanish back in P2, learning colours and pupils and the local guides. In particular, Julie-Anne Mackenzie, SCILT
19 Scotland’s National Centre for Languages [ Winter 2015-16 ] [ News from Local Authorities ]
Teacher immersion course in Beijing long with 25 other teachers from (The Forbidden City), a hutong district districts with their outdoor food-stalls. AScottish nursery, primary and (including a rickshaw ride and the privilege secondary schools, I spent a fortnight of visiting a Chinese home), Tiananmen The two-week stay made a lasting during the 2015 summer holidays in Square and the Summer Palace. We also impression on many members of the Beijing. The visit was organised by CISS visited Tianjin, one of China’s largest cities group. (Confucius Institute for Scotland’s Schools) and a fascinating mix of old and new. and Hanban, which promotes the learning Several of us have since signed up for of Chinese language and culture in Being free to come and go in the late Chinese courses to build on the linguistic Scotland. afternoon and evenings offered us foundation we laid during our trip. This opportunities to discover Beijing using the will prove valuable in passing on our Our base was the Beijing Language and subway. Collectively, we managed to tick knowledge of Chinese language and Cultural University conference centre, and off most of the city’s sights including the culture to our pupils as the 1+2 approach we quickly settled into a pattern including Beijing Opera, the Olympic Village, the silk is implemented across Scotland. Chinese lessons in the morning, cultural markets (be prepared to haggle!), temples activities or trips in the afternoon and and, of course, the central shopping James Poots, Lasswade High School evenings to ourselves.
The language teaching was conducted almost completely in the target language and focused on pronunciation. It was teacher-led and involved a lot of repetition, but our two teachers were very sympathetic and encouraging.
Afternoon sessions included calligraphy and Chinese painting and a Chinese tea-ceremony. Day-trips included visits to the Great Wall, the Palace Museum
and the Institut Français. The judging The Apprentice Challenge panel choose the overall winners and tourist, such as transport, where to stay, present them with a prize. They are always where to eat and where to visit. Pupils impressed with the confidence pupils work collaboratively in small groups, have in delivering their presentations in a assuming different roles to ensure the daunting situation. effective working of their team and giving pupils autonomy for their own learning and It has been excellent to see pupils success. flourish through this project, embracing their competitive drive and relishing the This information is collated and presented opportunity to work with others. The in the most interesting and appealing knowledge and skills they acquire through ‘Venez à Glasgow – c’est fantastique!’ way possible. Each group must produce the challenge not only help to develop their a poster, a leaflet and a PowerPoint skills for learning, life and work but the For the second year running, S3 presentation in French. They then deliver project also makes pupils more aware of French pupils at Gryffe High School a presentation of their final products to the important role they have as citizens and have completed an exciting six week the class with all members of the group ambassadors for Scotland and Europe. skills-based task. The objective of The participating. The winning team from each We are hoping the project will continue to Apprentice Challenge is to successfully class then competes in the final, presenting flourish and next year we plan to extend brand Glasgow as an exciting tourist to a judging panel and their year group. the project to more than one language and destination for French-speaking tourists. involve the local tourist board. Over the last two years, the judging panel The beginning of the task sees pupils has included our very own Gryffe ‘Alan Allons-y! researching Glasgow and imagining what Sugar’, DHT Mr Peter Holsgrove, and information they would want to know as a guests from the local authority, SCILT Louise Tait, Gryffe High School
www.scilt.org.uk [ Leading on Languages ] 20 [ News from Local Authorities ]
Using the Storyline approach to support language teaching and learning urriculum Support this course wanted support C Teacher Yvonne McBlain with teaching the French is responsible for training and Spanish language Falkirk practitioners in the content, but they also Storyline approach. She was needed guidance on how aware that internationally to communicate aspects Storyline is often used as of the culture of these a method for teaching new countries too. Consequently, languages. Yvonne linked Yvonne, Fiona and Laura with Laura McEwan, 1+2 are designing professional Languages Development learning which creatively and Teacher, and Fiona naturally integrates language Moffat, 1+2 Development teaching with other areas Officer, in Stirling and of the curriculum. Everyone Clackmannanshire councils, is focused on exploring to explore how Storyline how storyline can make the could help all three councils learning broader, deeper and make language learning engaging and together and initial feedback is positive. more engaging for learners. relevant to pupils, particularly as they The course is designed to enable work towards the implementation of the participants to: Applying Storyline methodology to the 1+2 approach. 1+2 approach complements the work • Use storyline methodology within practitioners in Falkirk have been doing On 8 September, Laura, Fiona and their language teaching for the past 12 years. View storyline Yvonne delivered the first part of a • Adapt their methodology to meet the projects created by Steve Bell, Sallie new three-part training programme needs of learners Harkness and other members of the designed to support practitioners as • Link their language teaching Storyline Scotland team - www.storyline- they develop the delivery of second and effectively across the curriculum scotland.com/. third languages. The team are enjoying creating this innovative new course As expected, practitioners attending Anne Hutchison, Falkirk Council
Young Europeans on the edge of Europe
rae High School is one of five the importance of fishing to the The culmination of the week was a unique B schools from communities on the Shetland Islands and how this has been opportunity for pupils and their hosts to edge of Europe, who have joined together transformed over the years into a thriving take part in a specially organised Up Helly in a transnational project funded through pelagic fishing industry. Pupils visited Aa. Pupils and staff worked tirelessly the Erasmus+ programme with the aim the largest fishing boat in Scotland, ‘The to build a specially designed galley of examining various issues which affect Research’, a fish processing factory and torches. Visiting pupils designed their pupils. The other schools are in and were given the opportunity to have shields to represent their communities Hammerfest (Norway), Adana (Turkey), a hands-on experience of what is in the and rehearsed an act to represent their Iglesias (Italy/Sardinia) and Gulbene seas around us, finishing with the chance country’s culture. It was a tremendous (Latvia). to taste the end product. event generously supported by the local community. Lasting friendships were In March, pupils from our partner This was followed by an exploration of made during the week and we are looking schools visited Brae for a packed week the textile industry in Shetland as well forward to our next mobility to Sardinia in of activities to showcase the diverse as looking at the impact of the oil and December. nature of our industries as well as our gas sector on the local economy and culture and heritage. Pupils explored community. Julie D’eathe, Brae High School
21 Scotland’s National Centre for Languages [ Winter 2015-16 ] [ News from Local Authorities ]
We’re going on an adventure…a German adventure! ellsquarry Primary P7 recently B participated in the German language adventure, held at James Young High School and run by the Goethe-Institut.
The challenge was to complete 16 stations in one hour. Each station had a task and at each station one team member had a lanyard around their neck with a clue. Once we had completed the challenge, we stamped our task sheet and moved onto another. Once we completed four challenges, we went to ‘control centre’ where our scores were recorded and logged on a computer so we could see our progress and check out our performance against the other teams!
In order to successfully complete the tasks, we had to work together as a team, think through our ideas, discuss what we thought and then agree on the correct solution. Sometimes, we had to persuade others to go along with our suggestions! At one station, we had to pose as crazed German football fans and get our picture taken. At another, we had to look at German, Austrian and Swiss manufacturers and decide which two were the odd ones out. We had to listen to pop groups singing in German. P7 at Williamston Primary were lucky a map of Germany to navigate their enough to be involved in an exciting way round the stations and the further Although we learn French in class, the project with the Goethe-Institut. The they travelled the more bonus points aim of the session was to have fun. We Modern Languages Department at they could earn! Pupils really enjoyed did have a lot of fun, plus we know a James Young High School invited taking part in a wide range of activities few more things about Germany. Here P7 along to take part in a transition and especially enjoyed dressing up are some of our ‘Words of the week’: event with pupils from other schools in German colours. It also allowed in the cluster. This was a wonderful pupils to apply team work and problem • ‘Busy!’ – Ella opportunity for pupils to learn German solving skills. The P7 pupils were • ‘Fun!’ – Freya phrases and vocabulary as well as supported by S6 and S1 students and • ‘Interesting’ – Beth more about German culture through the P7s particularly enjoyed seeing • ‘Different!’ – Finn fun and engaging activities. The older friends who used to attend • ‘Challenging’ – Callum children had to complete as many Williamston. • Sehr gut’ – Cara activities as they could in an hour and each activity station was named Stephanie Brown, Williamston Primary Colin Hunter, Bellsquarry Primary School after a German city. Teams had to use School
www.scilt.org.uk [ Leading on Languages ] 22 [ News from Cultural Organisations ]
Cultural Organisations
Combined with a short language course for Baba Yaga and other things UK primary schools, to be published soon, tasters in schools and other work, we hope you can… Find out about Russia to persuade some schools to consider introducing short Russian courses as an L3 he Scotland-Russia Forum launched its either at P5 or during BGE in secondary. Tnew website for children, Find out about Russia (www.findoutaboutrussia.co.uk), For more information about the website, with a competition this summer. Children the forthcoming Russian course, or our were invited to choose from a variety of programme of free Russian tasters activities and we were delighted to receive please contact me on pictures, stories and computer games from [email protected]. children all over the UK, some sent by their schools and some individual entries. Jenny Carr, Scotland-Russian Forum
The most popular choice was a picture libraries will inspire future interest in Russia of the witch Baba Yaga, who lives in a and provide material for a number of hut on chicken legs (it can chase you!) comparative school projects in the years to and flies through the air in a mortar. come. Thanks to generous grants from the Scottish Government, Glasgow University We hope too that children, and their / CRCEES and the Russian Teachers teachers, will continue to explore the new Group we were able to send a small gift website. It covers a range of topics, folk to each entrant, books and other items to tales of course but also an introduction to lots of prize-winners, and a large parcel the language, Russian space (currently the of books to the main schools taking part, subject of a major exhibition at the Science in Edinburgh, Orkney and Barra. We hope Museum in London), history, ballet, sport that the Russian collection in their school and much else besides.
Dynamic Franco-Scottish links to support international education and languages n 23 September 2015, 16 académies more embedded approach and primary not yet established a partnership with an O(French regional authorities for teachers in France are eager to share with académie, please contact the Education education) attended the Scottish Learning their colleagues in Scotland. L3 which Attaché at the Institut Français d’Ecosse Festival to meet with their partner local presently starts in 4ème (S2) will be taught ([email protected]). authority and continue developing in 5ème (S1). active Franco-Scottish links to support Vive la coopération éducative Franco international education and languages. Linking schools, students and teachers Écossaise et vivent les langues! is an easy first step to establish active This school year, various local authorities education partnerships. There are many Thomas Chaurin, Institut Français d’Ecosse have started to twin French and Scottish other avenues to explore, such as mobility primary schools through e-twinning for students and apprentices for teachers allowing French and Scottish students to through Erasmus+ funding. At this have an authentic experience in the target moment, 22 local authorities are linked language and teachers to share resources with 17 académies but various other local and best practice. authorities have since shown their interest in such partnerships. In France, as of September 2016, L2 will be introduced in CP (P2) instead Please contact your languages of CE1 (P3). Provision of languages in Development Officer if you are interested primary schools is progressively moving in having your school linked with a from a discretionary lesson model to a school in France. If your Authority has
23 Scotland’s National Centre for Languages [ Winter 2015-16 ] [ News from Cultural Organisations ]
French immersion programme for primary school pupils and their teachers n cooperation with North Lanarkshire School staff remain in the classes and classes in four secondary clusters prior ICouncil, the Alliance Française de they are able to consolidate the work to Christmas and the intention is to Glasgow has developed a programme of the Alliance Française’s teachers in deliver a similar number of sessions to of five introductory sessions for primary between the sessions. P4 and P5 classes in the same clusters classes. after Christmas. Feedback from the schools indicates Combining language input as well as that the pupils have responded very Robert Dalzell, North Lanarkshire classroom activities, these sessions well and are ‘chattering away’ in French Council, and Nathalie Korkmaz, Alliance focus on greetings, numbers, colours, in a much less inhibited way than P6 Française de Glasgow crafts and rhymes. They enable pupils and P7 classes would do. and their teachers to start practising their oral French with a native speaker Staff from the different schools and the who is also professionally trained to Alliance Française have really felt the teach French as a foreign language. enthusiasm and commitment coming from the pupils and their teachers who The pilot phase started in Cleland, took part in these sessions, making Calderbridge and Cambusnethan this French immersion programme a primary schools. P2 and P3 classes rewarding one for everyone involved. have a full French immersion experience over a three week period. The programme will cover P2 and P3
Innovative ideas at the German Language Day
effective delivery of German The focus of the afternoon’s in their schools. presentation delivered by Kirsten Herbst-Gray from Langholm Academy After the success of last was skills development in Higher based year’s event, Robbie Kirk and on trialled and tested approaches as Kirsten Herbst-Gray from well as using music for this purpose. SALT, with the support of Lilo also captivated her audience with Lilo and her talented team inspiring film clips to motivate and at Goethe-Institut, planned educate our German students. and delivered an exciting programme which showed The day was such a success that off the wealth of resources Fachtag 2016 has already been and support on offer. booked. The date for next year’s exciting event is Saturday 10 otivated and inspired by the Robbie Kirk from Carrick Academy September 2016. ‘Mvaried programme and activities’, delivered a very informative workshop was just one among the many positive on techniques and strategies which For any further information about the comments about the German Fachtag teachers can use to support young services which Goethe-Institut offers which took place on Saturday 12 people when tackling translation. The please go to the Goethe-Institut’s September. This was organised by SALT delegates also had the opportunity website (www.goethe.de/glasgow) in collaboration with the Goethe-Institut. to enjoy an interesting presentation where you can also sign up to receive The event was fully booked within a by Katrin Frahm about the Goethe- the newsletter. week and there was a waiting list for Institut’s programme and certificate, ‘Fit participants. The delegates enjoyed a in Deutsch’ followed by a guided tour Amanda Lyons, SCILT really varied programme to support the around the Goethe-Institut’s library.
www.scilt.org.uk [ Leading on Languages ] 24 [ News from Cultural Organisations ]
Our Europe film-making project 2015-16 has launched! fter the success of last year’s Our on storyboarding and planning as well watch their films for the first time and A Europe, the film-making project for as helping schools to establish links receive awards in recognition of their S3-S6 pupils has launched for another with partner schools abroad so pupils achievements. year. This innovative, educational can discuss their ideas with peers in project, run by the Scottish European other countries before submitting them. Our Europe is a great way to get pupils Educational Trust, asks pupils to work in engaged in language learning, boost teams of four to come up with an idea Once all the entries have been their confidence and develop their core for a short film based on how being a submitted, 18 teams will be invited to skills. If you would like to know more European citizen affects them as young attend one of our three workshop days about the project, or arrange a school people living in Scotland. The concept (held across Scotland) where pupils visit, please contact Madeleine McGirk must creatively address European can work with film-making professionals ([email protected]). issues as well as include at least one to turn their ideas into real films. Pupils language other than English. All pupils spend the day receiving training then To sign up or register teams please have to do to enter is send their ideas subsequently filming and editing the visit the Our Europe website - www. in storyboard form to the SEET office idea outlined in their initial entries. oureuropecompetition.com/project. by 10 December 2015. Up until this The final stage of the project will be deadline, SEET staff will be making a premiere and awards ceremony Madeleine McGirk, Scottish European visits out to schools to run workshops where all 18 teams come together to Educational Trust
1525 Scotland’s National Centre for Languages [ Winter 2015-16 ] [ News from universities ]
News from universities
The Open University in Scotland’s Young Applicants in Schools Scheme (YASS) ASS is an opportunity for S6 the potential of YASS modules being already used to it at this stage. It’s also Y students in Scotland to study formally recognised as part of their given me different skills, such as critical university level modules in school admissions policies. From 2015 students thinking, taking notes and critical reading alongside the school curriculum. It is can add their YASS to their UCAS – all skills you’ll need when you get to delivered by The Open University in applications as other qualifications. university which you don’t usually learn Scotland (OUiS) and is funded by the YASS will also be included in Insight, until you get there. The fact that I have Scottish Funding Council (SFC). the Scottish Government’s senior phase already been introduced to that is really benchmarking tool. Each YASS language going to help me.’ Students can access over 30 modules in module gives credit at SCQF Level 7. a wide range of subject areas including YASS students work with a tutor or study Heather, Caldervale High School 11 language modules, including French, advisor and have access to the entire German, Italian, Spanish, Welsh and OU online library. This method of delivery ‘YASS provides a solution for us here. Not Chinese. These modules are offered at means YASS can be embedded and only does it give pupils opportunities to beginner and intermediate level, last sustained within senior phase choices for study subjects that wouldn’t otherwise be between 30 and 40 weeks and require schools year on year. available to them at a level that wouldn’t up to 16 hours of study per week. They normally be possible, it allows them to do are clearly structured with timetables and YASS offers schools the opportunity so here, at Doon Academy.’ deadlines. of adding breadth and depth to their curriculum with limited impact on Norman Paton, UCAS Adviser / More than 4,000 pupils from 230 schools teaching resource. YASS is particularly Widening Access Coordinator Doon have participated in YASS since it attractive to schools who struggle to offer Academy was piloted in 2007. Currently, 40% of their students language options. Scottish secondary schools have one or For further information, please contact more students taking a YASS module. Case studies Kitty Chilcott, YASS Project Officer, kitty.( This statistic excludes independent [email protected]). More information is schools. 102 students are studying a ‘Studying my YASS course has really available from www.open.ac.uk/scotland/ language module. given me a big boost in confidence. I study/young-applicants-schools. already know that when I get to university As well as being able to study a subject I will be able to cope with the standard Margaret Nicolson, Open University in that interests them, pupils participating and pace of learning just because I am Scotland in YASS develop important skills such as independent learning, critical thinking and time management.
One of the core strengths of YASS is its accessibility. Participation is not dependent on where a student lives, cohort numbers or the ability to pay. This means that an S6 student from any school in Scotland can choose to take a language module through YASS, and SFC funding means the majority of YASS students can access full funding for their modules. Please note that students from independent schools are not eligible for SFC funding.
To further support widening access, the OUiS is in discussion with Scottish Higher Education Institutions to explore
www.scilt.org.uk [ Leading on Languages ] 26 [ Partnerships beyond school ]
Partnerships beyond school
Adding sparkle to your languages classroom! ast year SCILT ran a pilot project with numeracy and health and wellbeing, Blogs from this year’s students are L15 schools, primary and secondary, as well as looking at the language and available from the SCILT website linking a class to a student who was about increasing pupils’ knowledge about - www.scilt.org.uk/BeyondSchool/ to spend their year abroad. The students culture. LanguageLinkingGlobalThinking/ were either a English Language Assistant tabid/5388/Default.aspx. with the British Council or a volunteer with There is an initial briefing meeting for the Scottish charity Project Trust. teachers and students in June. The If you are interested in setting up a link for student subsequently visits the class 2016, please contact Alice Lister (alice. All these young people on their year before going out to the country and there [email protected]). The link runs from abroad are wonderful adverts for is a post-country visit to the class too. June 2016 to June/Sept of the following learning a language and discovering the Blogs are proving to be a very effective year, 2017. culture of another country. Moreover, the way of communicating between the class links provide a rich context for literacy, and student. Meryl James, SCILT
Language Linking Global Thinking – a school’s experience
n August last year we were introduced about the culture and Ito Ellen, a student at Stirling University daily life in France, as who was about to spend a year in France well as improving our as a Language Assistant. Ellen spoke to French. Here is what us about the things we would like to learn others in my class about France, and then used this as the had to say: focus for her monthly blog that she wrote to us while in France. Her blog posts ‘It was fun and a were very detailed and clearly described good opportunity to what it is like to live in France – school use and expand on life, food and festivals to name but a few. my knowledge of It was really interesting to see what she French.’ had been doing and what daily life is like in another country. ‘It was easier than I expected to We were also paired with pupils from communicate with one of Ellen’s classes in France. Once them as their emails matched, we wrote letters to introduce weren’t perfect and ourselves (we wrote in French and neither were mine... they wrote back in English). We then after the first email I went on to discuss a range of topics didn’t panic so much including hobbies, school and what we that my French wasn’t like and dislike. My two pen pals were perfect.’ called Rémy and Marwanne. It was great to get to know them over the year ‘I’m excited to learn and to find out what they’re interested more about French culture and more ‘No matter what language you speak in. I realised that although we live in of the language, and meet and talk to you can still communicate with different countries we are very similar more people from France.’ people.’ in certain things. ‘The project has made me want to live The article was written by a pupil who It was a very enjoyable experience for in France for a bit and see what it’s like took part in the Language Linking Global our class and we have learned a lot for myself.’ Thinking initiative at Alva Academy
27 Scotland’s National Centre for Languages [ Winter 2015-16 ] [ Partnerships beyond school ]
Language Linking Global Thinking – a student’s perspective he Language Linking Global Thinking pupils. They were eager to ask questions A year on from the project, I hope Tpilot project, which aims to inspire and find out more about a different that my experience in France has the younger generation as they take their culture as I shared my experience as highlighted some of the many first steps in learning a language, not an English Language Assistant in Lycée advantages of language learning, not only introduced pupils in various schools Jean Monnet in Nantes, France. Meeting just for job prospects and increased across Scotland to new languages and the pupils three times over the course of employability, but to inspire pupils to cultures, but also enhanced my own time the year, before, after and during my time challenge themselves in different ways, abroad as I reflected on my experiences abroad, allowed me to report back on my experience new cultures and meet and reported back to my partner school experiences and answer any questions incredible people. There is no doubt through blog updates and emails. the pupils had. It also meant I could bring that now, a year on from beginning my back some Belgian chocolate for the year abroad and involvement with the The training day at Stirling University in class from my travels! project, I have gained valuable skills, June 2014 allowed students taking part in confidence and even more enthusiasm the project to discover a little more about In addition to classroom visits, blogging to perfect my language skills. our roles and gather ideas about topics meant that the pupils could keep up to share with our classes. In addition, it to date with life in France. It was also Furthermore I have gained experience was a pleasure to meet the teachers with beneficial to me as it inspired me to in a possible future career and made whom we would work and allowed us to get out and do things that I would not some lifelong friends along the way, plan topics and dates to visit the school. have done otherwise, and pushed me to thanks to my link with the staff and become part of the community, whether pupils in the Language Linking Global Linking with P5 and P6 at Borestone it be volunteering at the local cinema or Thinking Project. Primary in Stirling was a pleasure, attending training sessions at the local especially working with such enthusiastic running club. Lauren Gane, University of Glasgow
www.scilt.org.uk [ Leading on Languages ] 1628 [ Partnerships beyond school ]
Dylan Kelly, Marketing Manager, Old Course Hotel, Golf Resort & Spa
Why are languages important in your people from across the globe and many field of work? pride themselves on making visiting guests feel welcomed. Ours is an international industry requiring language skills. We attract What would you say to anyone thinking guests from across the globe and it’s of going into your field of work? extremely important that we service these guests to five star standards. We Hospitality is certainly a challenging tailor our messages in various languages career and you need to be aware of that. and work with our staff, translators and Amongst the most desirable qualities international agencies to do so. Golf is is communication and that is vital at all an international game but messages levels. I’m Dylan Kelly and I feel very lucky to can be very different and it is important market one of the leading resorts on we communicate consistently across all the planet. My role promotes award territories. SCILT’s job profiles highlight the value of winning golf, spa, food and drink, all language skills in the world of work. They of which I’m passionate about and Would you say a little language can go cover various sectors including business, certainly makes the job a bit easier! Our a long way? heritage, marketing, sport and science. resort mission statement is to deliver Visit the SCILT website to read Dylan outrageous hospitality experiences I believe most of our visitors appreciate Kelly’s full job profile -http://www.scilt. and as a five star resort it is our being engaged in their mother tongue. org.uk/Business/Jobprofilesandcareers/ responsibility to do so. I am fortunate to work with some great tabid/2867/Default.aspx
SCILT Staff
Anna Mazzucco, Modern Apprentice
What did you do before you came to SCILT?
Before starting at SCILT in June 2015, I was a pupil at St Ninian’s High School in Giffnock. This school gave me many opportunities to be able to achieve my goals. During my time in school, administration was my favourite subject, which led me to look at apprenticeships for administration.
What is your main role at SCILT?
My main role is supporting and being part of the administration team and supporting Professional Development Officers.
What do you like most about your work?
I like the variety of work at SCILT and every day I am able to do different tasks. As I only started in June I am still learning new things within SCILT.
29 Scotland’s National Centre for Languages [ Winter 2015-16 ] [ SCILT Staff ]
Amanda Lyons, Professional Development Officer What did you do delivering a broad range of support great feeling. The post of Professional before you came to measures for secondary teachers of Development Officer is also really varied SCILT? languages. This involves creating and and brings with it so much flexibility which leading professional learning workshops, is a definite bonus! I am currently on secondment from the managing projects and facilitating James Young High School in Livingston business links between schools and Who has been the biggest inspiration where I led the Modern Languages businesses as well as organising other (in the pursuit of languages) so far? Department. I was very lucky to be in promotional events. I have a particular charge of a large, dynamic department focus on supporting the growth of I have met so many people, both teachers which offers a variety of languages German in Scottish schools and will be and young people who have had a including French, German, Spanish working closely with external partners to positive impact on my career. However my and more recently Mandarin. I was also support this aim. biggest inspiration was my first ever Head network leader in West Lothian for Modern of Department, Susan Watkins, who was Languages. During the period before What do you like most about my boss when I began my career as a my secondment I was responsible for your work? languages teacher many moons ago! Her raising attainment in the senior phase passion for languages and the support by supporting colleagues across the I love working with such talented and she gave both to new languages teachers authority with the implementation of the passionate colleagues both within SCILT and young people learning languages new Higher course. and across Scotland. It is a joy knowing was second to none. I learned a lot simply that the services we offer at SCILT are for watching her interact with people every What is your main role at SCILT? the ultimate benefit of our young people day and will always be grateful for the and their language learning. Knowing chance to have worked with her. As a Professional Development Officer I have played a role in supporting the I am responsible for developing and languages agenda in Scotland is a
Julie-Anne Mackenzie, Professional Development Officer What did you do delivery of CLPL workshops relating to potential for further study that working here before you came to language learning and teaching, and in can offer. SCILT? supporting schools in their implementation of ‘Language learning in Scotland: A Who has been the biggest inspiration I was a secondary teacher at Calderglen 1+2 approach’. I am also working with (in the pursuit of languages) so far? High School in East Kilbride. I taught language departments to help them Spanish, French and Gàidhlig to native make links with the business community. My language teachers in Fidigary School, speakers. Calderglen is a very dynamic As the only Gaelic speaker at SCILT, I Leurbost School and the Nicolson Institute and enterprising place to work, giving have responsibility for any work relating in the Isle of Lewis were inspirational in staff plenty of opportunities to develop specifically to Gaelic. many ways. They used innovative and their own areas of interest and motivate memorable approaches in their teaching, pupils to learn in different contexts. I What do you like most about many of which I have copied! They were was able to arrange and take part in the your work? so positive about language learning and Learning Away programme through a they set such a good example, working huge variety of residential activities and So far, I like the flexibility and variety of hard to produce great lessons and co-ordinate the Duke of Edinburgh’s work at SCILT. It means contact with keeping pupils motivated. Particularly in Award. both pupils and fellow professionals, so senior school, they gave up time to ensure every day is different. I love that I get the pupils were able to continue language What is your main role at SCILT? chance to go out to different schools and study which went above and beyond the workplaces to see examples of some call of duty. I’m sure I didn’t say at the time, As a Professional Development Officer, excellent practice, which I will take back but I really appreciated it! I am involved in the development and to school. I’m also very excited about the
www.scilt.org.uk [ Leading on Languages ] 30 Contact Us
SCILT LH-232 Lord Hope Building University of Strathclyde 141 St James Road Glasgow, G4 0LT Tel: 0141 444 8163 Email: [email protected]
www.scilt.org.uk
At the University of Strathclyde, SCILT has a number of partnerships with key organisations in Scotland, UK and further afield.