Form 3 Explore Language Learning through Football

Form 3 pupils had an exciting day learning French, German, and Spanish through football, enhancing their vocabulary and language skills in the classroom and on the pitch.

This unique experience helped pupils enhance their language knowledge while also demonstrating the many opportunities that learning a foreign language can offer in the future.

The workshops, focusing on both football and languages, were led by Steve Eadon from the Mingalaba organisation. Drawing from his experience as a coach and outreach officer with Arsenal Football Club, Steve shared how language skills are invaluable in the international and sports industries, opening up career opportunities for young learners.

Steve began the day by sharing his journey with Arsenal Football Club, highlighting how his linguistic abilities have been essential in areas such as player care and tour management. He encouraged Form 3 pupils to recognise how learning languages is more than just mastering vocabulary and grammar – it can unlock exciting and well-paid career paths when combined with other specialised skills.

“Steve’s talk was eye-opening for our students,” said Jen Dook, Head of French. “He showed how learning a language is more than just mastering words and grammar – it equips you with valuable skills that can enhance your future career prospects and personal connections.”

Steve also emphasised how knowing a foreign language can help people make meaningful connections with others, even in a new environment, drawing on his experience assisting international visitors in adjusting to life in England, including high-profile football players.

Following Steve’s presentation, the students participated in language-focused classroom sessions in French, Spanish, and German. By the end of the lessons, they were able to write football match reports in their target language.

In the afternoon, the pupils took part in a football training session, where they applied the new vocabulary they had learned in a real-life setting on the pitch.

“Steve’s visit was a wonderful way to show how learning a foreign language can connect to sports and business careers,” said Jen Dook. “The feedback from our pupils has been overwhelmingly positive, and they have gained a deeper appreciation for how languages can enhance their lives.”

Inviting outside speakers such as Steve is one of the many ways that our French, German and Spanish Departments make language learning relevant and fun for our pupils.