Forget Around the World in 80 Days – students at Sacred Heart Catholic High School in Fenham managed to travel across Europe in just one week. The school’s extended celebration of this year’s European Day of Languages offered pupils a chance to explore a rich mix of cultures, customs, and cuisine without ever leaving the classroom.
Celebrating linguistic diversity
Finland and Norway were among the destinations on the curriculum, alongside familiar favourites such as France, Spain, and Italy.
“European Day of Languages promotes and celebrates the rich linguistic and cultural diversity across Europe,” said Katherine Robertson, Acting Head of Modern Foreign Languages (MFL) at Sacred Heart, part of the Bishop Bewick Catholic Education Trust (BBCET).
“It encourages people of all ages to learn new languages, improve their skills, and appreciate the benefits of multilingualism.”
A week of cultural connection
“Schools, cultural organisations, and communities mark the day with fun activities, events, and projects that highlight the value of communication and understanding between different cultures,” Mrs Robertson continued.
“Most BBCET schools mark the day in some way, from language taster clubs to treasure hunts, quizzes, and even fancy dress. This year, Sacred Heart High School offered a wide range of activities to students across all year groups, as we dedicated a full week to the celebration of all things languages.”
From cheese tasting to ‘Pasta Masta’
The week was packed with creative, hands-on experiences. Students sampled Norwegian Brunost brown cheese, crafted their own scents in a French perfume workshop, and tested their Italian vocabulary in a ‘Pasta Masta’ quiz exploring the meanings behind pasta shape names.
Other highlights included a cookery competition inspired by four European countries and Abanicos en acción, where pupils discovered the secret language of the Spanish fan while decorating their own.
Staff also joined in the fun, donning costumes inspired by famous foods and cultural icons for a fancy dress challenge, where students had to guess each teacher’s country of inspiration.
Crafting, challenges, and “Sisu”
Creativity continued with bracelet making, where students designed friendship bracelets featuring inspiring messages in different languages. One of the most popular sessions was ‘Challenge Your Sisu’, a Finnish-inspired workshop encouraging perseverance and positivity.
“Sisu is a Finnish word that doesn’t really translate into English,” explained Mrs Robertson. “It means your inner strength, determination, and never giving up – even when things get tough.
“Students engaged in a variety of physical, mental, and linguistic challenges, and earned stickers. If they were able to complete all five, they were awarded the title of ‘Sisu Survivor’ and got a certificate.”
The workshop was led by French Teacher Sara Willis, with support from MFL staff members Olivia Wood, Emma Davies, Sophie Thompson, Kathryn Russell, and Emma Ogunyemi, alongside Mrs Robertson.
Building bridges through language
“European Day of Languages has been celebrated every year since 2001, when it was launched by the Council of Europe in partnership with the European Union,” Mrs Robertson added.
“Celebrating the European Day of Languages in schools helps students appreciate the value of learning different languages and develops respect for other cultures. It encourages curiosity, communication, and openness, preparing pupils for life in a diverse and interconnected world.
“It also makes language learning fun and engaging, showing students how it can open opportunities for travel, work, and friendships.”
