Modern Languages
The Modern Languages Department at De La Salle strives to create a positive, engaging, and enjoyable language learning experience for all pupils. Our aim is for every pupil to enjoy learning a new language and to feel confident using it in real life contexts.
In Year 8, pupils are given a fun, meaningful introduction to both languages. They then focus on one language in Years 9 and 10. We believe this structure best supports strong outcomes at GCSE and beyond.
Lessons are active, engaging, and varied, helping pupils develop key communication skills while gaining an appreciation for other cultures. We ensure pupils feel supported yet challenged to reach their full potential.
Learning a language helps them become more confident thinkers and stronger communicators, while also enhancing literacy and problem solving skills.
Our lessons are designed to be lively, interesting, and appropriately challenging, using an active approach to spark enthusiasm and promote steady progress. We believe it is essential that every pupil gains confidence and achieves his full potential in using the language.
KS3
Our KS3 programme prepares pupils smoothly for CCEA GCSE Spanish and Irish, giving them a strong foundation in vocabulary, grammar and communication skills. Pupils learn to:
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Talk about themselves, their family, hobbies and school life
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Describe their daily routines, local area and interests
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Discuss food, holidays, technology, the environment and other everyday topics
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Understand and use basic grammar
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Develop good pronunciation and listening skills
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Explore Spanish and Irish culture, traditions, festivals and lifestyles
KS4
At KS4 pupils study the CCEA Specification for Spanish and Irish which focuses on practical communication skills needed for real life situations. Pupils study a variety of themes that prepare them for life, work and travel:
Identity, Lifestyle & Culture
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Yourself, family and relationships
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Hobbies, social media and technology
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Free time, film, music and sports
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Celebrations, festivals and traditions
Local, National & Global Areas of Interest
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Your home and local area
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The environment and global issues
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Healthy lifestyle choices
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Travel, tourism and holiday experiences
School Life, Studies & Future Plans
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Subjects, teachers and school life
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Pressures, challenges and aspirations
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Future jobs, careers and work experience
Extra-curricular
We strive to nurture pupils’ interest in the culture of Spanish‑ and Irish‑speaking communities, helping them develop greater independence and a deeper understanding of their own language through comparison and exploration.
Pupils of Irish are encouraged to attend the Iúir Gaeltacht, where they can immerse themselves in the language and culture. Seachtain na Gaeilge is celebrated every year in the college with great enthusiasm. Pupils take pride in their language and culture when they come together to celebrate it.
Spanish students have enjoyed a trip to Barcelona, where they explored the city’s rich culture and history, experienced authentic Spanish life, tasted traditional foods, and most importantly had the opportunity to practice their language skills in real‑life contexts.
