Offaly school takes part in Language Sampler Module

Over 20 sixth class pupils from Scoil Phroinsiais Naofa in Clara are set to take part in the Primary Language Sampler module, ‘Say Yes to Languages’ for the first time this year.

The module, which is being made available for the second year following its extension by the Department of Education, was met with overwhelming enthusiasm last year and this interest looks set to continue with 700 schools having registered to take part in 2022/2023.

‘Say Yes To Languages’ offers an introduction into a variety of modern foreign languages as well as Irish Sign Language (ISL), and looks to also raise awareness among pupils of the diversity of languages being used by their peers both in school and the wider community. 

Over 500 schools took part in the module last year which saw French, Spanish, ISL, German, Italian, Mandarin Chinese, Romanian, Arabic, Lithuanian, Polish, Tamil and Portuguese being taught across the country. Pupils of Scoil Phroinsiais Naofa will be saying OUI to French which will be delivered over an extended eight-week period during the normal school timetable.

Speaking about the module, Principal Mrs. Madge Bourke comments, “We are delighted to be bringing ‘Say Yes to Languages’ to Scoil Phroinsiais Naofa this year. We recognise the benefit and importance of a module such as this. Whilst learning languages undoubtedly allows for the development of a life skill, it also helps build greater awareness of the rich and diverse cultures within our own school and local community.”

Tutors of the module may be teachers or part of the wider school community including parents, native speakers or other staff members. French secondary teacher Native speaker Alex AUBIN will be delivering the module this year at Scoil Phroinsiais Naofa and is excited to have the opportunity to share his passion for French with the pupils, having gained the skills while born, living, studying, working and teaching in Paris, France.

Alex Aubin already taught a French module in primary school like Tullamore, Geashill, Ballinagar, Cappagh. He is a secondary French teacher as well.

In line with last year, the module is being rolled out over three terms, with the support of Languages Connect and PPLI (Post-Primary Languages Ireland), a unit of the Department of Education.

A suite of resources has been produced including lesson plans for teachers and tutors and ‘Language Passports’ for all participating pupils to show their family and friend. Packs have been sent to participating schools to help support both the teaching and learning, but also awareness raising objectives of the module. More information regarding the modules, tutor expression of interest and supports are available at www.languagesconnect.ie/primary