Modern Languages Aims 

Aims of the Initiative

The Initiative aims to foster positive attitudes towards language learning, to encourage communication in the four target languages and to promote diversification in the range of languages taught. Further aims include the establishment of links between language teaching at first and second level. The Initiative also strives to enable a greater number of children in a wider range of school types to study Modern Languages in our primary schools (DES Circular 45/97).

The Work of the Initiative in Primary Schools

It is very important that the language learning experience be a positive and enjoyable one for all involved:

“This is a very exciting project, which will foster positive attitudes to language learning through the use of active learning approaches including drama, songs, and games and by promoting an awareness of being European among the pupils. It is my intention that classrooms participating in this project will be lively stimulating environments where there is a strong emphasis on enjoyment.”

Mr. Micheál Martin, Minister of Education,
November 1997

Pupils from Fermoy Adair School, Co. Cork, learning about French food and culture