Learning through the languages area of the curriculum enables children and young people to: 

• develop their ability to communicate their thoughts and feelings and respond to those of other people
• develop the high level of skills in listening, talking, reading and writing which are essential for learning, work and life
• use different media effectively for learning and communication
• develop a secure understanding of how language works, and use language well to communicate ideas and information in English and other languages
• exercise their intellectual curiosity by questioning and developing their understanding, and use creative and critical thinking to synthesise ideas and arguments
• enhance their enjoyment and their understanding of their own and other cultures through literature and other forms of language
• develop competence in different languages so that they can understand and communicate including, for some, in work settings.

Building the Curriculum 1