Modern Languages ‘Masterclass’ in Oxford

As part of our ongoing involvement with the Independent – State School Partnership (ISSP), a project which encourages a consortium of schools of both types to work together to promote pupil interest in Modern Languages, we were invited to bring nine gifted Year 9 linguists to a day of activities hosted by three Oxford colleges: Balliol, Somerville and Brasenose.

The boys had a valuable introduction to the benefits of studying languages and studying at Oxford, and greatly enjoyed workshops on Ancient Greek and ‘What is Language’. After a very civilised lunch in the splendid surroundings of the college Hall, the group were shown round the colleges and then had a chance to ask questions of current students at Oxford. The boys returned to Habs with a clearer idea of the benefits of studying Modern Languages, and having had an inspiring glimpse of student life in Oxford.