Joint Schools' Workshop in German Literature

Published on isbi School News dated Monday 27th of January 2014

Professor Stuart Taberner from Leeds University recently led a workshop for A level pupils from Oundle, Stamford and Bedford Schools' German Departments about The Reader by Bernhard Schlink. Professor Taberner is widely considered to be the UK expert on this novel.

The workshop took place in The Raymond Lee International Suite of Oundle's newly refurbished Modern Languages Adamson Centre.

Oundle pupil, Helen Rider (16) commented, 'After establishing the context of the novel in post-war Germany, we looked more closely at the literary elements. We discussed issues of guilt, motivations for killing, judgement in the context of prison as well as betrayal.'
Oundle School German teacher, Charlotte Thompson commented, 'The afternoon's collaborative, group discussion, led by Prof Taberner, was an invaluable session, deepening pupils' understanding and appreciation of this key text.'

Oundle's New Languages Centre

The opening of Oundle School's Adamson Centre in October 2013 marked a new and exciting phase for the Modern Languages Department and is the latest completed project in Oundle's comprehensive and ongoing development plan. A stunning blend of traditional architecture and contemporary glass features, the Adamson Centre, formerly the Sir Peter Scott Building, has been redesigned specifically with the teaching of foreign languages in mind. In addition to welcoming over 900 pupils a week, the Centre will also provide a hub of excellence within the wider community of teaching, with staff hosting conferences and lectures to promote the development of languages.

The Modern Foreign Languages Department is one of the largest in the School, with seven languages being timetabled: Arabic, Chinese, French, German, Italian, Russian and Spanish. More pupils than ever are learning two or more languages, with many more taking advantage of the breadth of clubs, societies and lectures on offer outside the curriculum. A Level and Pre-U results continue to rise; last summer saw pupils gain 45 A* and A grades at A2, with 20 Oundelians going on to read one or more languages at university.

The building is named after major benefactor and former pupil David Frederic Dobell Adamson who left the School in 1937. He requested that 'this bequest be used to improve facilities for and give opportunities to students to learn to speak and communicate in foreign languages'

The Adamson Centre facilities include:

* 14 Teaching Rooms: Each classroom focuses on a single language and culture and is equipped with high quality audio speakers, an interactive whiteboard and projector.
* 2 Sony Language Laboratories: Two dedicated PC suites combine all the features of a traditional laboratory with the latest multimedia technology, including Sony Virtuoso language software.
* 6 Language Assistant Pods: Fully equipped with touch screen computers, these modern glass fronted rooms are designated specifically for conversation classes and oral examinations.
* The Raymond Lee International Suite: The centre-piece and 'hub' of the Department, this Suite provides a perfect venue for language conferences, films, lectures from visiting speakers and competitions. It is equipped with the latest Skype technology, blu-ray cinema system, projector and blackout blinds.

Former pupil, George Hammon commented, 'Oundle has always been a pioneer in modern languages. As I look back on working in Paris for many years, on graduating from France's top business school, and on my life now in Geneva, I am very grateful for the excellent grounding I was given, and with it, access to the global world of today.'