Members of our Northgate News Team have decided to find out a bit more about staff at Northgate. With that in mind, our intrepid reports Mirren, Corey and Max, met with Mr Everett, Head of Modern Foreign Languages, for a quick chat.
What made you choose languages as a teaching subject?
I would think because all my teachers from when I was in secondary school told me to do Science. I also think that it was just really interesting because it wasn’t just from a textbook, you had to learn it properly.
Why is it important to learn foreign languages?
I only have one answer; it makes us human.
What is your favourite language to teach?
Well, right now it’s Spanish because I lived in Mexico so it’s pretty interesting.
What is the worst thing to teach about languages?
Sometimes when people say “I can’t do it.” But it is physically possible because the human brain is flexible and can definitely learn a foreign language / languages.
So, I heard you’ve written a few textbooks. Is that right?
I have written a couple textbooks, yes. I have written for the Oxford University press, KS3 Spanish and A level Spanish.
Do you enjoy teaching languages?
Yes!
Were there any other subjects you wanted to teach?
Science probably, but they wouldn’t let me.
Have you ever lived in any foreign countries?
Yes, I lived in France for 1 year and I lived in Mexico for 4 years.
A big thank you to Mr Everett for taking the time to meet with us and answer our questions. If you want to know more about languages or the opportunities available in languages at Northgate, such as being an International Leader, Duo Lingo or the competitions run by the department, please see Mr Everett or another member of the department.
