Hallo! Bonjour! Hola! Ciao! Olá! Hej! Today at Talbot Heath School, we celebrated the vibrant tapestry of European languages in honour of European Day of Languages. The Languages Department has led a week of joyful assemblies for both Junior and Senior pupils, showcasing the beauty and diversity of European cultures. Highlights included a lively French Can-Can performance, a passionate Spanish Flamenco, and a hilarious “Europe’s Got Talent” show that had everyone smiling. A particularly moving moment was the beautiful French singing duet by Emily and Millie, which captivated the entire audience.
While we’ve been celebrating languages here at Talbot Heath, it’s important to acknowledge a concerning national trend: the decline in language learning across the UK. Fewer students are choosing to study languages at GCSE and A Level, despite the growing importance of multilingualism in today’s global workplace. Language skills not only enhance communication but also foster cultural understanding, improve cognitive abilities, and open doors to international career opportunities. Employers consistently value candidates who can speak more than one language, especially in sectors like business, diplomacy, tourism, and technology.
At Talbot Heath, we are proud to buck this trend. Our commitment to specialist language learning begins in Kindergarten and continues all the way through to A Level. We believe that early exposure and consistent development of language skills empower our pupils to become confident global citizens. Today’s celebrations are a testament to the enthusiasm and talent of our students and staff, and a reminder of the joy and value that language learning brings to our school community.
Wishing your family a lovely weekend.
