The gift of a bilingual education

MULTILINGUALISM IS OUR MISSION

Thanks to our language focused education, whether through the French or the international Tracks (iTrack), LFSF students become bilingual and learn to speak, write, read and learn in more than one language. Moreover, they can expand their language learning and be introduced to a third language, developing language, communication and cultural skills that will serve them throughout their life.

Bilingual students are more able to navigate among cultures and are uniquely prepared to be global citizens. They are educated in an international environment that values openness, tolerance and fearlessness when approaching new people, communities and experiences.

cognitive benefits

Research studies indicate that the achievement of proficiency in a second language associated with Dual Language instruction provides many benefits for students.

Individuals who are bilingual switch between two different language systems. Their brains are very active and flexible. They have enhanced levels of metalinguistic awareness (i.e., knowledge of how language works), proven to be essential to learning how to read. Research also shows that bilingual people have an easier time in understanding math concepts and solving word problems. They develop strong thinking skills, and tend to be better at focusing, remembering and making decisions.

In addition, since bilingual students are used to thinking about language and translation, they consequently are better at learning other languages beyond their first two.

beyond school

In a global society like ours, learning a second language during childhood provides developmental and social benefits children will carry with them well after graduation.

  • They demonstrate increased memory, attention and language abilities
  • They have greater awareness and understanding of one’s native language, greater appreciation for multiple points of view and multiculturalism
  • They tend to be better able to bridge generation gaps with relatives who speak non-dominant languages
  • They generally have higher self esteem and flexibility and lower levels of social stress
  • They even benefit from delayed onset of Alzheimer’s and other age-related dementias!

Parent, your role is key in your child's bilingual journey

Bilingual or not, parents have a critical role to play. Parents are encouraged to read to their children in their mother tongue, knowing that knowledge and learning in one language is eventually transferred to the other. The educational success of children learning two languages is directly linked to the mastery of their mother tongue.

Parents are also important in motivating and encouraging their children to enjoy, practice and study in both languages. Learning and studying in two languages can be challenging and demanding, so it is important for your child to understand the benefits of the education they are receiving and count on your support.

 

A GLOBAL NETWORK YOU CAN RELY ON

At LFSF, we attract families from around the world who are very mobile and want a high quality, consistent educational experience for their children.

French Track

Through the AEFE, LFSF is part of a network of nearly 500 schools throughout the world, making it easy to contemplate providing a consistent high quality education to your children wherever your job may take you.

ITrack

The iTrack is powered by the IB, which itself represents a network of over 5,000 school across the globe.