Arabic programme at De La Salle

Arabic programme at De La Salle

22 November 2023

DE La Salle High School in Downpatrick has introduced a new project to support Arabic-speaking students.

‘Natakallam al-Arabiyya: We Speak Arabic’ is a new programme targeted at supporting students with Arabic language heritage.

Students will work regularly with programme co-ordinator Ian McMillan to develop literacy and speaking skills in both Arabic and English.

Principal Ciaran Maguire said: “Some of these young men have been on a remarkable journey.

“It is important that we respect not only their heritage but also the fact that they already have important language skills which we can help them to further develop.

“We want our students to know that we see their potential and that they are welcome here.”

Mr McMillan said: “I’m excited about the vision the school has for this project.

“I have been teaching languages and studying Arabic for years, but in this case I am less a teacher and more a mentor – the students speak their local dialect of Arabic better than I do.”

Mr McMillan added that he had materials and skills to help the students develop their literacy in standard Arabic and support their English.

“It will be a mutual collaboration and a new style of learning which respects and empowers these young men,” he said.