Celebrating European Languages

In celebration of European Languages Day (Thursday, September 26th) Truro School pupils have been looking at how the power of language can bridge divides and open doors to great friendships, community and support.

Did you know that there are 7,000 languages spoken around the world? There are also 7,000 ways to say hello, express a story, and even resolve conflict.

In celebrations that spanned the week, Senior School pupil representatives from many international countries showcased their linguistic skills by hosting assemblies in their native tongue.

One of our 1st Year pupils, Lukian from Ukraine, courageously presented at the 3rd and 4th Year assembly this week and afterwards said, “This was something I have never done before, but it was good, and I really enjoyed it.”

We take great pride in our international community at school and were fortunate to have enjoyed presentations in Ukrainian, French, Spanish, German, Cantonese, and Hungarian. Special thanks to sixth formers Alice H and Harriet B for organising the assemblies.

Senior School pupils also took part in a languages-themed escape room, while our catering team embraced European culture with a delicious selection of internationally inspired dishes each day, including Turkish stuffed aubergines and Spanish paella.

Mrs Le Bihan Murphy has extended a special invitation to all Senior pupils to submit their designs for a poster competition illustrating ‘Languages for Peace’ using symbols, quotes and artwork to convey messages of unity and understanding. Please send your electronic posters in by Friday 11 October.  This competition, led by the European Languages website is a fun opportunity to celebrate the importance of language in reinforcing understanding and tolerance.

There were celebrations at the Prep School too, as pupils created bunting representing different cultures and languages that decked the school in a riot of colour. There was a special assembly led by our courageous Year 6 pupils, a school-wide treasure hunt and a special lunch menu amongst other activities. Our staff and pupils also created a fabulous video showcasing their language skills to celebrate the diversity within our school community.

This week has been a wonderful opportunity to celebrate our diversity and the connections that language fosters. Thank you to everyone who took part in this wonderful international celebration of culture.