At JAGS we are proud of the very wide range of modern languages offered to girls; not only French but also German, Italian, Russian and Spanish  (all begun in Year 8) are taught to GCSE and A level with excellent results. Japanese is also available from Year 9.  There is a very good uptake in languages both at GCSE (where many girls choose to do two) and at AS and A level as girls recognise the increasing value of language skills in building successful careers. We achieve very high academic results in all languages and enjoy regular success at Oxbridge.

We are also equally proud of the different languages which the girls speak at home and bring to the learning environment - 49 at the last count!  A special effort is made to support bilingual girls who wish to prepare for public examinations in their own language.

Exchanges and visits are organised by the department to all the countries concerned. Teaching young people how to travel and to find their way about Europe, how to appreciate living with a family abroad and gaining early insights into other cultures are all considered vital aspects of language study. A number of Year 12 students have undertaken work experience in France, Germany and Italy in recent years. Details of recent visits are given on individual language pages.

The department places importance on the creative and cultural aspects of language learning as well as on the communicative and on grammar. We encourage students to read imaginative texts, short stories and plays and to write and perform poetry in the target language.

Film plays an important role at all levels, bringing the country and the culture as well as authentic language right into the classroom and inviting response in the target language. We invite outside theatre groups to bring professional productions in the language for the girls to see live in the Prissian Theatre as often as possible. The department is able to take advantage of the London theatre scene and the proximity of the various foreign language institutes, especially for Sixth Formers.

We welcome contacts with foreign schools and are keen to establish e-mail links with other countries at all age levels.