Attention: You are using an outdated browser, device or you do not have the latest version of JavaScript downloaded and so this website may not work as expected. Please download the latest software or switch device to avoid further issues.

News > School News > The love of languages – Headmaster writes in Attain Magazine

The love of languages – Headmaster writes in Attain Magazine

James Priory explores why the cultural experience of learning a language often ends up taking second place to the practical advantages.
15 Jul 2020
School News
James writes in Attain Magazine: Too often, learning a language is seen in a utilitarian way rather than enjoying it for the experience. James Priory argues this traditional view on language learning puts value above cultural experience.


One of the more bizarre moments in the aftermath of the 2016 Referendum was the submission of a petition to remove French-sounding mottos from the front of the UK passport.

‘Dieu et mon droit’ (God and my right) and ‘Honi qui mal y pense’ (Spurned be the one who evil thinks) may have been embedded in English for centuries and even appear on the royal coat of arms, but for some the perpetuation of a foreign language on the document most emblematic of their national identity was enough to take up arms online.

No matter that ‘passport’ itself is a word derived from Old French to mean the authorisation to enter or leave a country typically, in the fifteenth century at least, via a port. Or that to ‘Take Back Control’ linguistically would have meant having to give back ‘control’ because of its derivation from Old French. You only need to read the myth of Babel to understand that language knows no bounds.

You can read the full article in Attain magazine, which is published three times a year and is a leading title in the independent education sector. Read more here: Attain magazine
 

Share Your Story

Do you have a story to share?
Contact a member of our team.

Click here to email us
with your idea

Or, call us on:
+44 (0) 1732 304253

image

CONTACT US

Tonbridge Society Office

Email us

 +44 (0) 1732 304253

Charity Registration Number 1099162

This website is powered by
ToucanTech