Et si on parlait français à la BSB? Looking back on our French/English Bilingual introduction almost ten years on… In 2009/2010 the school made the decision to launch a bilingual programme and in 2011, BSB introduced its French/English bilingual programme. The then Head of Primary School was interviewed for Tapestry. This article is based upon her original text. The learning of modern languages has been a highly valued part of the curriculum at BSB since the establishment of the school. In most international schools, the learning of the host language is what helps to define its internationalmindedness and its acknowledgement of and respect for the local community. French was the most obvious modern language to introduce as BSB began as a school for British expatriates who would be returning to the UK, where French was the main (if not only) foreign language taught in schools. As French was one of the languages of our host country it was easy to resource materials locally and together 36 Learning inspiring success
opportunities for the children to practise the language in context were plentiful. Dutch (as the language of the local commune and one of the host country languages) was later introduced to BSB for children in Year 7 who were beginners to the language. As the language of the local commune and one of the host country languages. Today the two main languages of Belgium have become increasingly important as a medium of instruction in further and higher education. The International Baccalaureate (IB) Bilingual Diploma in Dutch and French soon became available. This proved to be a great advantage to those students who wished to remain in Europe to pursue their studies. From September 2011 Dutch became a compulsory subject from Year 3 onwards.
