CJMLC - Language College

THE LANGUAGE COLLEGE

The Convent of Jesus and Mary enjoyed over 10 years as a specialist Language College. It was one of the first schools to achieve specialist status in this area and received funding directly from the government to promote languages and the international dimension both within the school and in the local community.
Whilst in many schools a minority of pupils chooses to study a foreign language at KS4, The Convent of Jesus and Mary ensures that everyone learns at least one foreign language, with many students learning two or even three.
In year 7 students experience all of the languages offered at the school during the first term and they then choose the one they intend to continue with until the end of year 11. There are, however, fast track courses for more able students. At KS5 students continue to experience languages through A level courses or by means of the weekly enrichment classes.

We are a rich, diverse and inclusive school: there are over 35 languages represented. Many students at the school have an additional language which they may speak at home such as Polish, Arabic, Portuguese, French Italian and Spanish. These students are encouraged to participate in the early entry scheme and are supported in their learning through the weekly lessons offered as part of the Saturday School provision.

In addition to the normal curriculum, students at the Convent benefit from a whole range of cultural activities such as workshops organised in conjunction with international events and festivals, visits to art galleries and museums, cinema trips and lectures, which make their education truly distinctive and develop both their interpersonal and intercultural skills, which are essential for success in an increasingly global economy.
A programme of overseas visits as well as joint projects with schools located in other countries provide students with an opportunity to compare their experiences with those of their peers living abroad and explore global issues.

The integration programmes run in conjunction with the British International School give students a chance to gain an insight into different school systems by hosting groups of Italian visitors who share their lessons during their stay in England.
The work carried out to promote internationalism throughout the school was recognised by the British Council in 2008 as the Convent achieved the International School Award.