How learning a second language turns pupils into powerhouses at Wellington College International Shanghai

As the world becomes more interconnected, learning a foreign language (https://shanghai.wellingtoncollege.cn/academic/chinese-programme/) can provide students with a lifetime of benefits. From improved cognitive abilities to expanded career prospects, being proficient in more than one language is a valuable asset for any child’s educational journey and future success.

Building brain power

The process of learning a new language activates the regions of the brain that are responsible for functions such as memory, auditory processing, critical thinking and more. When children learn new vocabulary, sentence structures and grammar rules, their brains go into overdrive recognising patterns, establishing connections and then applying this newfound knowledge to a wider context. In a way, it is like a strength training regimen for the brain! A 2015 study conducted at Georgetown University in the US, revealed that mastering two or more languages has positive physical and structural effects on the brain itself. Compared to their monolingual counterparts, bilingual test subjects displayed a greater volume of grey matter in the brain region responsible for executive control. Additionally, they exhibited enhanced short-term memory, problem-solving skills, focus and a greater capacity for multitasking. These skills serve children well in nearly every subject they study at Wellington College International Shanghai (https://shanghai.wellingtoncollege.cn/), maths, the humanities, even PE

Building a rewarding career

There is also a simple and practical consideration: career prospects. As the global economy grows ever more intertwined, bi- or multilingual job applicants will be in greater demand. Being skilled in more than one language facilitates collaboration with international partners. It broadens a company’s customer base too. But language versatility is only part of the picture. If you can speak more than one language, it says a lot about who you are as an employee, a colleague or a partner. Bilingual learners gain an entire toolbox of soft skills highly valued by employers, like creative thinking, problem-solving, active listening and teamwork.

Building a bridge between cultures
 

Learning a foreign language(https://shanghai.wellingtoncollege.cn/academic/chinese-programme/) fosters openness and appreciation for other cultures — all things that are valued deeply here at Wellington. When pupils study a different language, they absorb different worldviews, communication norms and societal customs almost automatically. Words, expressions and idioms are dense with cultural significance. When pupils dig deeper into cultural origins and usages, they gain valuable insights into a culture's history, traditions, customs and psychology. Which, in turn, gives them fresh perspectives on their own cultural assumptions.

At Wellington, countless opportunities are offered to their pupils to engage with multiple languages more deeply. The school’s French and Spanish MFL Event is a prime example. Wellington pupils and parents came together a series of engaging workshops about the music, art and culture of these wonderful countries. And this British schools in Shanghai (https://shanghai.wellingtoncollege.cn/about-us/heritage/ ) topped the day off with a sampling of some delicious food. In the process, their pupils practiced listening and oracy, while engaging in meaningful cultural exchange.

This is important because when pupils can step outside their own cultural lens, they learn to approach differences with empathy and curiosity rather than judgment. This is especially powerful when it comes to developing interpersonal skills. Children, in effect, learn to build bridges rather than walls, create consensus rather than conflict. The results of this can be seen every day at Wellington, and their pupils take this with them long after they graduate from Wellington College International Shanghai (https://shanghai.wellingtoncollege.cn/ ).

So, whether it is English, Chinese, Spanish or French, the benefits of learning a new language cannot be overstated. It deepens children’s minds as it widens their world. It builds their character as it builds their resume. Ultimately, they will be better equipped to navigate this interconnected world as global citizens.

Company: Wellington College International Shanghai
Name: Admissions Department
Phone: (+86-21) 5185-3866
Email: info.shanghai@wellingtoncollege.cn
URL: https://shanghai.wellingtoncollege.cn/
Address: No.1500 Yao Long Road, Pudong New District, Shanghai 200124 China