European
& International Studies
The Priory School
Neville Avenue
Spalding
Lincolnshire PE11 2EH
Person in charge of project: Brian Howes, Headteacher
Priory School is made up of pupils aged 11–16 who have learning difficulties and/or autistic spectrum disorders.
The school serves a very large area of rural south Lincolnshire and the fens – many pupils come from isolated homes and have very little experience of travel or other parts of the country.
The project involves a curriculum for developing a concept of 'foreign-ness' and associated language skills for special school pupils who have learning difficulties and/or autistic spectrum disorders. The programme has been growing and developing for five years and involves all pupils in the school. The main language taught is French, but German and Dutch are also covered (and Australian!).
Judges' comments
This is an impressive project in a Special School which shows that 'languages
for all' can be a reality. A wide range of stimulating opportunities are
provided and pupils develop an understanding of other countries and cultures.
They learn to speak some simple words and phrases in another language
and are able to meet and converse with native foreign language speakers.
The benefits of the project are immense in expanding the horizons of children
with special needs living in an isolated area of the country.
