Additional languages

Engaging classes that prioritise active learning

Classes are relaxed and friendly, and give you the opportunity to study alongside students from different year groups, courses and nationalities.

From the very start, you will develop your speaking, listening, reading and writing skills through varied and enjoyable activities, with the ultimate aim of communicating effectively in a wide range of social situations.

Study the cultures and societies where the language is spoken

Learning a language is not just about being able to speak it; it is also about learning about other cultures, societies and values.

For example, students on the British Sign Language programme learn about the lived Deaf experience, and take a historical look at the oppression of Deaf people and its impact on their culture.

You will have the opportunity to engage with cultural aspects that interest you at all levels through the in-semester coursework. Previous students have explored a wide range of topics such as contemporary media, cuisine, history, fashion and literature.

For example, students of Japanese have researched anime, the J-pop industry and the history of the Samurai.

Using your additional language after your studies

By the end of your course, you will have achieved intermediate level, aligning with B1 on the Common European Reference Framework, which will enable you to get by in most social situations, and provides an excellent springboard for pursuing further study of the language.

Previous students have gone on to actively use their additional language on placements after graduation. For example, a past student of Chinese volunteered at a panda breeding facility. Another completed a three-week exchange programme at Nanjing University, and another went on to complete a four-month internship in Taiwan.