At the start of January, our Year 9 students participated in an inspiring virtual MFL (Modern Foreign Languages) session, gaining a unique insight into how language skills can lead to extraordinary careers within the Civil Service.

We were delighted to welcome two guest speakers who shared their personal journeys, proving that being “good at languages” isn’t just about the classroom—it’s a passport to a global career.

From Engineering to Brussels: A Scientific Approach

Our first speaker, currently serving as the Transport and Space Attaché for the UK Mission to the EU, shared a surprising revelation: at school, he was much more interested in science and engineering than linguistics!

However, his career and personal friendships eventually led him on a global path. After spending time in Spain teaching English to primary children, he discovered the power of communication. He now resides in Brussels, Belgium, where he:

• Uses his fluent Spanish to support international teams.

• Continues to develop his French skills daily.

• Navigates complex international relations in the heart of Europe.

A Global Passport: Education on an International Scale

Our second speaker, the Head of China & Asia Pacific (International Partnerships) at the Department for Education, showed students just how far languages can take you. Her role focuses on supporting the quality of education abroad, a mission that has seen her travel the globe.

Having lived in Valencia, her career has since taken her to Brazil, China, and Portugal. Her story highlighted how languages allow you to immerse yourself in different cultures while making a real difference in global education standards.

Mrs Turner, Head of MFL at The Wilnecote School, was thrilled with the engagement from the students during the session:

“It was a privilege to welcome such high-profile speakers to share their experiences with our Year 9s. Seeing how a foundation in languages can complement other interests—like science or education—is vital for our students as they consider their futures. These stories prove that languages aren’t just a subject; they are a tool that opens doors to the world, and I am so proud of how our students engaged with these global possibilities.”

Looking Ahead

The session had a profound impact on the year group. Following the presentations, there was a unanimous agreement among our Year 9 students: having knowledge of a foreign language is a significant advantage in the modern world.

We hope this experience has encouraged our students to think about the “bigger picture” when it comes to their MFL studies. Whether it is through travel, science, or international diplomacy, the possibilities are truly endless!