Pupils learn Arabic as part of language programme

Pupils at Hove Park School are taking the opportunity to learn Arabic as part of a language programme funded by Qatar Foundation International (QFI) and managed by the British Council. 

The Arabic Language and Culture programme introduces students to the language, history and cultures of the Arabic-speaking world. It aims to counter the negative stereotypes often portrayed in the media and to make Arabic a realistic language choice for secondary school pupils in the UK. 

Students from all years with their families started learning Arabic this term, joining pupils at seven other schools across the UK that are participating in the programme. 

Head of Languages, James Sandford said: ““The addition of Arabic into our language offer is an interesting development and is a great fit to the many cultural backgrounds in school. The aim is to encourage students and families at home to participate into a new language and deeper appreciation of Arabic culture. We are hoping to extend this into lessons for those in school with an existing experience of Arabic and a hope to move towards GCSE mentoring for these students and ideally A Level in HP6 as an option if there are the numbers and interest.” 

Arabic is spoken by more than 400 million people all over the world and is one of the official languages of the United Nations. It is recognised as a valuable skill for young people in the UK to acquire, with the British Council ranking Arabic in its top ten Languages for the Future due to demand from business, trade, diplomatic and security sectors. 

Carine Allaf, senior programmes advisor at QFI, said: “We’re delighted that Hove Park is joining a global network of more than 60 schools that have benefited from QFI's funding for Arabic language programs. An understanding of Arabic and the Arab world will give its pupils a significant advantage as they navigate post-secondary school decisions, when they enter into the jobs market, and simply as global citizens in today's world.” 

Vicky Gough, schools advisor at the British Council, said: “The chance to learn Arabic is an incredibly useful opportunity for pupils, both personally and professionally. This programme will introduce them to the cultures of the Arabic-speaking world, equip them with sought-after language skills and open up new future career paths.”