Radford celebrates Languages Week
By Michele Sharp, Head of Languages
When you learn a language, you begin to understand that culture and language are intertwined. Last week we celebrated Languages Week in the Secondary School for the first time, and a range of language and cultural experiences were available to students and staff. The Library staff highlighted our modern language reading material, prayer was multi-lingual, and the special menu at the Canteen was very popular. We’ve already discussed some possible menu items for next year!
On Monday, students displayed their creativity in the language-themed cake baking, Lego, and art competitions. The creations were impressive and the below students took home some prizes for their wonderful efforts. Students also had the opportunity to learn a new language (Thai and Telugu) taught by a peer.
Artwork
- Rameena Qureshi – Year 8
- Oliver Curll – Year 7
- Olivia Rehfisch – Year 7
Cakes
- Ella Pak Poy – Year 7
- Siobhan MacLeod – Year 12
- Bella Schofield – Year 9
Lego
- Wilsy Tierney – Year 7
- Patrick McNamara – Year 7
- Joshua Kingston – Year 11
Tuesday was dedicated to Chinese activities. Students tried their hand at some traditional games, calligraphy, and completed a quiz. They were also treated to a traditional music performance on a Guzheng or Ancient Chinese Zither, by Mrs Zhang. A brave few gave learning Welsh a go. At a mere 58 letters, I know I’m still trying to master the longest place name in Welsh. Why not give it a go? “Llanfairpwll-gwyngyllgogerychwyrndrob-wllllantysiliogogogoch”
Wednesday was dedicated to all things French. Students posed for fun photos and a workshop on mime was offered.
After taking a break for Moderation Day, we unfortunately went into lockdown and the Japanese and Spanish activities planned for Friday have been postponed. Students can look forward to Origami, Anime, toy making, a quiz, and dancing when they return.
From food to the arts, it’s easy to recognise that we cannot teach language without culture. A big Gracias, Merci, Xièxiè and Arigatou to all those who dressed up, participated in activities, and used their language skills to order the special menu at the Canteen. You made it a wonderful week. Special thanks to the student Languages Captains, those who shared their language with our community, our staff judges, the library staff, the Chaplains for highlighting Languages in last week's Bulletin, and the Languages staff for all their hard work. We are certainly showing that monolingualism is curable!
