School Prospectus - Smithdon High School, Hunstanton, Norfolk

English
English language, both written and spoken, means confidence in life. English is the medium by which nearly all of
us lead our lives. At Smithdon High School we therefore believe it is vital that every student secures the basic skills
which will enable them to both understand and engage in the world around them.
These skills are developed through a structured programme of study which is supported and enhanced by
reading. As all educational research shows, reading for pleasure is a vital part of your child’s development and we
ask parents to support our efforts to encourage this. As students progress, we strive to develop their fluency and
analytical skills as well as an understanding and enjoyment of our literary heritage. These skills will equip them for
higher education and employment, where the ability to communicate well is essential.
Enrichment activities include visits to a number of venues such as The Globe Theatre and visits to the school by
well known authors, as well as a number of school based, extra-curricular opportunities. The department’s excellent
facilities housed in a purpose built and attractive teaching base close to the school’s outstanding library and ICT
facilities all play a significant role in supporting the development of pupils’ knowledge and skills.
“I’ve settled in well. Smithdon is big but not scary at all.” - Year 7 student
Modern Foreign Languages
Modern Foreign Languages have practical communication at the core of their learning philosophy.
Endless lists of vocabulary are of little use if pupils do not possess the skills to use these words in everyday
situations. Communication is key and making the occasional mistake is all part of the process. We equip our
students with the skills to take their language studies out of the classroom and into the world, whether it is for the
purpose of work, pleasure or further study.
Modern Foreign Languages will play a key role in the new, knowledge-based economy of the future. In addition to
the considerable economic advantages gained by a workforce competent in a foreign language, the social benefits
should also be recognised. It is most important to show people in other countries the courtesy of speaking to them
in their own language.
People who can speak another language, or at least have a good working knowledge, can hope to be more
successful in gaining employment and command higher salaries within their organisations. Languages expand the
mind, but shrink the world.
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