We are excited to mark European Day of Languages by introducing this year’s Modern Languages Assistants!

Guillermina, Nolwenn, Wei wei and Celine work across the Languages department, providing pupils with support and guidance in their chosen languages of Spanish, French, Mandarin and German. 

Guillermina is from Argentina and provides assistance in Spanish. Having been at RGC for 7 years, Guillermina shares: “At Robert Gordon’s College, we have native language assistants in all four modern languages, which is incredible. We work with pupils either individually or in pairs to help them improve their speaking skills. Working as a Spanish Language Assistant at Robert Gordon’s is incredibly rewarding, as it allows me to share my passion for the language and culture with enthusiastic pupils. Engaging with native speakers is invaluable for pupils, as it helps them gain confidence, fluency and improve their pronunciation.

“With S3 pupils, we focus on expanding their vocabulary knowledge through interactive and engaging activities. Using tools such as card games, quizzes, and sentence builders, which help make learning new words fun and memorable. S4 pupils take their National 5 exams. The exam includes questions about personal topics such as themselves, their family, where they live, and their hobbies. We work with them to develop their ability to respond confidently and effectively to these topics, improving both their speaking and writing skills. 

“Higher pupils have a stronger understanding of the languages so we work with these pupils on more advanced topics, such as different types of families and friendships/marriage/divorce/technology/the importance of languages. This involves helping them explore these themes in greater depth, building on their existing knowledge and expanding their language skills for more complex discussions. Advanced higher pupils have the chance to engage in a weekly 40-minute session with a native speaker assistant, which is a unique opportunity for immersive learning. The experience is especially beneficial in preparing them for their speaking exam with an external examiner, ensuring they feel well-prepared, comfortable, and capable of expressing themselves clearly and accurately. I'm very happy to be part of this enthusiastic department and can't wait to work alongside our new assistants.”

Nolwenn commented: “It is my pleasure to have joined Robert Gordon’s College as a French Language Assistant this year. Helping pupils improve their pronunciation and speaking skills is not only rewarding in itself but also offers an insight into the English language and its etymological connection with French. Additionally, we get to share cultural anecdotes and idiomatic expressions which enables pupils to go beyond grammar basics and discover entertaining aspects of language learning. I not only get to share my culture, but pupils also share theirs with me. I was delighted to be able to attend Founder’s Day and see the school pipe band and highland dancing clubs represent Scottish culture during such a special ceremony. I am also very much looking forward to the end of term Christmas celebrations, because “j’adore Noël!”

Wei Wei shared: “Working here as a Mandarin Language Assistant is a totally fresh experience for me and I am looking forward to finding more surprises here. Let’s pursue the charms and happiness of learning Mandarin together!”

Celine said: “I am very excited to be working at Robert Gordon's College this year as I would like to teach the pupils my enjoyment of the German language. The joy of language comes at a young age and I hope to inspire the pupils in a playful way. Languages are incredibly important in Switzerland and open the doors to new cultures and people. As language assistants, it is therefore also part of our job to show the pupils these opportunities. Of course, I am also looking forward to being part of a new culture and getting to know it better. New traditions, both at school and in general, will be a great enrichment for me.”

Mr Campbell, Head of Languages, said: “In the Languages department, our pupils have the chance to study a wide range of languages, learning not just vocabulary and grammar but also widening their knowledge of other cultures, traditions and lifestyles. Teaching staff work across the Junior and Senior Schools, from nursery to S6. Throughout their language journey in Junior School, pupils are able to experience French, Spanish, German and Mandarin, with this provision continuing into Senior School, where Latin and Classical Greek are also on offer. Classical Studies is offered to pupils at the top end of the school. All of our languages can be studied to Advanced Higher level.

"Our language assistants provide a bridge between pupils and authentic language practice, offering real-world exposure to the cultures and nuances of French, Spanish, German, and Mandarin beyond the learning and teaching which takes place within the classroom. By bringing native fluency into the classroom, they help enhance pronunciation, listening skills, and conversational fluency to pupils’ linguistic abilities. Their presence allows pupils to engage with the language in a natural, spontaneous way, building confidence in both formal and informal settings.

"Beyond language learning itself, they also broaden pupils’ cultural understanding, introducing pupils to the customs, traditions, and perspectives of the countries and areas where these languages are spoken. Through their focused attention with pupils, both individually and in small groups, our language assistants are able to offer personalised feedback tailored to each pupil's unique strengths and areas for improvement. Additionally, their support extends beyond the classroom, as they often recommend resources, exercises, and practices tailored to each student, ensuring continuous growth as they move along their language pathway. We are very grateful to our language assistants for the huge wealth of work that they do in developing both linguistic competence and global awareness.”