BIS Abu Dhabi integrates language learning and cultural immersion for global citizenship and awareness
At The British International School Abu Dhabi (BIS Abu Dhabi), language learning is about connecting students to global cultures and fostering a sense of citizenship.
Through a dynamic, multi-faceted approach, the school ensures that every student, from Year 3 to Year 13, experiences the richness of language and culture in a way that goes beyond the classroom.
BIS Abu Dhabi’s Modern Foreign Languages (MFL) Department plays a pivotal role in helping students become globally aware.
Eric Déposé, Head of Languages at BIS Abu Dhabi, explains, “Our approach combines classroom learning with real-world experiences, using a rich curriculum taught by native language speakers and extending the experience through cultural events and activities.”
The curriculum integrates the local culture of the UAE with the target cultures of the languages studied.
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Students explore global traditions from Ramadan to Christmas markets, the Berlin Wall to Spanish festivals like Feria de Abril. This approach encourages a deeper understanding of both local and international cultures, fostering a global perspective in students.
At BIS Abu Dhabi, all students are introduced to languages from an early age, including French, Spanish, German, and Arabic, with strong support for EAL (English as an Additional Language) learners. This ensures every student has the tools they need to succeed.
Mother tongue programmes: supporting bilingual students
A key component of BIS Abu Dhabi’s language strategy is its mother tongue programmes.
These programmes, particularly the French programme, have evolved from a weekly CCA (co-curricular activity) into a comprehensive initiative.
Students in the French programme follow the objectives of the French national curriculum, combining language, culture, and cross-curricular learning.
Eric Déposé shares, “We’re proud of our French mother tongue programme, which helps native speakers reconnect with their heritage, improving their language skills while deepening their understanding of history and literature.”
Students enrolled in this programme also have the opportunity to sit for the DELF B2 exam, opening doors to prestigious French universities such as the Sorbonne.
In addition to French, BIS Abu Dhabi has launched a Spanish mother tongue programme with CCAs for native speakers in both lower and upper primary years.
The school is committed to expanding this initiative, with plans to offer similar programmes in other languages in the future.
Cultural Immersion: Bridging language with experience
BIS Abu Dhabi goes beyond traditional language lessons by incorporating cultural elements into the curriculum.
From celebrating international days to hosting cultural events, the school integrates language learning with hands-on experiences.
Eric Déposé notes, “Cultural events allow students to see languages not just as subjects to learn, but as bridges connecting people and cultures.”
For example, IB students recently celebrated Spanish customs, such as the Three Kings’ Day and the Twelve Grapes tradition, while German students crafted traditional holiday decorations.
These cultural experiences give students a firsthand look at the language they study, making it come alive in a meaningful way.
Through these celebrations, BIS Abu Dhabi creates an immersive language-learning environment that cultivates respect for diversity and enhances students’ global awareness.
As Eric puts it, “These events are more than just celebrations; they are opportunities for valuable learning that help shape students into informed, respectful, and globally aware individuals.”
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