One activity included was an exchange to Saint Mary’s School for students taking French, giving them a chance to practice their skills, while eating pains au chocolates.
“All French students from Year 10 to Year 13 took part and thoroughly enjoyed the opportunity to try out their language skills in a fun and friendly environment,” says Classics and Modern Languages teacher Lauren Lethbridge.
Other events included presentations from French and Spanish guest speakers on how the language shaped their careers, a languages quiz and lunch time feasts from Italy, China, France and Spain, as well as a good old kiwi hangi.
The week ended with a special visit from Pene Pati and Amina Edris, opera singers contracted to San Franciso Opera, who are currently the leads in the New Zealand Opera production of ‘The Elxir of Love’ by Donizette. Both are New Zealanders, originating from Samoa and Egypt.
“They talked to students about the importance of knowing many languages in their chosen occupations,” says Head of Languages Simon Curnow.
“Both have lengthy engagement lists with opera companies in the USA and Europe. They are stars of the present day and future. Last year Pene had the lead role of the Duke in Rigoletto at the San Francisco Opera."
