"How can anyone govern a nation that has 240 different kinds of cheese?" - Charles de Gaulle

The teaching of French at Northcote Lodge seeks to achieve more than simply a rudimentary introduction to the French language and preparation for exams. We aim to provide a thorough introduction to language learning with a strong backbone of grammar, a comprehensive range of vocabulary and the skills to apply this knowledge with competence. We also encourage boys to develop independence in learning and an interest in understanding the mechanics of the subject, in order that they are better able to adapt these skills to new languages and similar learning tasks in subsequent years. We offer a variety of approaches to Teaching and Learning in order to engage and motivate pupils, to develop cognitive awareness and to communicate effectively.

	A visit to Mont St Michel , Normandy, France
	Fancy dress at the Château

Latin

"Tantae molis erat Romanam condere gentem" (What a lot of work it was to found the Roman race) - Vergil

Latin teaching at Northcote Lodge School aims to develop pupils’ language skills. A knowledge of Latin grammar provides an ideal basis for pupils to develop their knowledge of the many European languages derived from it.

Another principal objective is to develop through the study of Latin the skills of analysis, precision, and concentration, which are felt to add to a pupil’s success in many other subjects within the curriculum, particularly English, French, Science, Maths and History.

The teaching also places emphasis on the understanding of Latinate words in English - which make up 60% of the English vocabulary and include many of the most technical English words.

Special lessons are set aside for the study of Greek Mythology, whilst a more general study of the Classical world is integrated in the translations used in Latin lessons and aims to provide pupils with a balanced picture of various aspects of the Greco-Roman world.

Another principal objective is to develop through the study of Latin the skills of analysis, precision, and concentration, which are felt to add to a pupil’s success in many other subjects within the curriculum, particularly English, French, Science, Maths and History.

The teaching also places emphasis on the understanding of Latinate words in English - which make up 60% of the English vocabulary and include many of the most technical English words.

Special lessons are set aside for the study of Greek Mythology, whilst a more general study of the Classical world is integrated in the translations used in Latin lessons and aims to provide pupils with a balanced picture of various aspects of the Greco-Roman world.