Friday Headlines
the weekly newsletter from EHS
Bonjour European Day of Languages
27 September 2024
The European Day of Languages (EDL), celebrated on 26 September, promotes linguistic diversity and the importance of learning languages across Europe. Coordinated by the Council of Europe and the European Commission, EDL encourages schools to embrace languages as a gateway to different cultures and opportunities. This year’s theme, "Languages for Peace," highlights how language learning fosters democracy, peace, and cultural understanding.
At EHS, we celebrate the event with a number activities, ranging from teaching in a new language, special assemblies and tasty continental treats. By promoting lifelong language learning, EDL opens doors to diverse professions and strengthens our appreciation of Europe's rich linguistic heritage. Here’s what the European Day of Languages looked like for Nursery to Year 6.
Continental Parisian Café Experience
As part of our Languages Week celebrations, the girls in Prep and Pre-Prep were treated to a delightful French breakfast, adding excitement to the week. Each year group arrived at Prep Hall to enjoy croissants, pains au chocolat, and juice, while the sound of French accordion music, French flags, and a model Eiffel Tower created an authentic Parisian café atmosphere. Though the girls had to return to their schoolwork afterward, all agreed it was the perfect way to start the day.
A Special Assembly
The Languages Week celebrations continued with an engaging European Day of Languages assembly. On Wednesday morning, we welcomed Mme Parker and six language ambassadors from our partner school, West House, to join in the festivities.
This year's focus was on French-speaking countries worldwide. Each class, from Reception to Year Six, presented key facts about countries such as Madagascar, Belgium, the
Seychelles, and Guadeloupe. The display featured jewellery and traditional dress from Chad, as well as authentic items from Senegal. Parents and staff also contributed, with
Monsieur Hennous from Algeria, Mme Spence (Alaïa’s mum) from Cameroon and Toulouse, and Mme Harpwood discussing her life in Tahiti. The assembly concluded with the traditional
French song ‘Sur le Pont d’Avignon’, reminding everyone of the global significance of learning and speaking French.
Bonjour European Day of Languages
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