In a growing global economy, based on efficient communication and intercultural exchange, the ability to speak more than one language has never been more important. A Modern Languages degree not only develops language skills to the highest level, but offers the possibility to explore and understand other cultures, through their history, writing, art, film, thinking and language development. Studying a language at university is not just an intellectual endeavour but also develops many skills highly valued by employers, including the chance to spend a year in another part of the world.

Girton College and the Faculty of Modern & Medieval Languages will be running a Taster Day aimed at pupils who are currently studying Modern Languages at GCSE, aimed at introducing the study of these courses at university level. The programme, which will take place at Girton College, will include workshops by University academics designed to inspire and enthuse Year 10 and 11 students who will already be considering languages within their A Level choices and possibly studying this vibrant subject at university.

The day will:

• Encourage students to keep and develop their interest in Modern Languages
• Demonstrate the value of studying these subjects at university
• Seek to allay any fears about starting a language ‘from scratch’ at university
• Inform them about their A Level choices and how this will affect their university applications

Students will have the opportunity to meet with current undergraduate languages students, and experience both culture and language workshops in a language of their choosing. There is no charge for attending the event. Lunch is provided, but we regret we are unable to cover travel expenses or offer overnight accommodation.

We invite schools and colleges to nominate up to two students for our Taster Day in Modern Languages open to students currently in Year 10 or 11 at schools in the UK. Nominations are now open. For more information, please see our website (www.girton.cam.ac.uk) or contact the Schools Liaison Assistant on access@girton.cam.ac.uk. When nominating students please note that:

• Students must be nominated by their schools, with no more than two nominations per school.
• Students should be taking a GCSE in at least one modern language and be on track to achieve good GCSE scores, with an intention to study Languages at A Level.
• Students do not need to be studying the language of the workshop they wish to attend.
• Please would teachers check that nominated students are available to attend the Taster Day.

Download further details, the Draft Programme and School Nomination Form