Databases

Primary community languages tasters

The primary community languages tasters project aimed to inspire pupils to welcome the world during London 2012 Olympic Games. This project, for Key Stage 1 primary school classes, aimed to raise awareness of other languages through the teaching of community languages. Bilingual tutors visited schools and delivered a series of language sessions. Schools were then provided with a teacher resource pack containing follow-up activities to support and develop what was taught in the set language sessions. The Hampshire young interpreter scheme trained pupils to become interpreters to support pupils who are learning English as an Additional Language. The benefits to both sets of children are evident; new learners felt supported and young interpreters took on a key role in the school community enabling them to develop their communication and interpersonal skills. Children from both schemes were highly motivated by these approaches and showed great enthusiasm. Both projects worked to raise awareness of community languages and help integration, not only in schools but also in the wider community. The project potentially involves 124 community languages represented by pupils in Hampshire schools, including British Sign Language.