Fluent in Achievement: The Languages Department Shines at PASCAL Private Secondary School Lefkosia

At PASCAL Private Secondary School Lefkosia, language is far more than grammar and vocabulary—it is a bridge to cultures, communities, and confidence. In an inclusive and diverse learning environment, the Languages Department plays a key role in fostering global citizenship, linguistic proficiency, and intercultural appreciation.

Throughout the 2024–2025 academic year, the Department has championed a dynamic programme of events, competitions, and experiential learning opportunities, guiding pupils to express themselves creatively, take initiative, and celebrate their linguistic and cultural identities with pride.

Creative Writing Competition

As the department’s flagship event, the Creative Writing Competition united PASCAL Secondary Schools in Lefkosia, Larnaca, and Lemesos. Held in November, it engaged pupils from Years 1 to 6 in crafting original pieces under time constraints, helping them sharpen both their imagination and exam-readiness. The competition fosters a love for reading, writing, and healthy competition—skills that extend far beyond the classroom.

Literature Projects

Incorporated into the core English curriculum, the Literature Project allows pupils to creatively engage with novels and plays, transforming their understanding into imaginative and insightful presentations. Standout projects from both semesters showcased an impressive grasp of literary themes and personal interpretation and we were proud of our winners:

• 1st Semester:
  Yr1 – Magalena Bowen
  Yr2 – Chris James Dsouza
  Yr3 – Olga Bowen

• 2nd Semester:
  Yr1 – Magdalini Katemliadou
  Yr2 – Elpida Farooque
  Yr3 – Stephanie Al Khoury
  Yr4 – Alissa Jaser

 

Poetry Slam – A Celebration of Voice

A highlight of the Globeducate calendar, Poetry Slam marked World Poetry Day on March 21st. Pupils embraced poetry’s expressive power by reciting and performing works such as John Keats’ "Ode to a Nightingale" and Victor Hugo’s “Demain dès l’aube”. Creative black-out poems and dramatic scenes from Tom Stoppard’s "Rosencrantz and Guildenstern Are Dead" added depth to the experience, showcasing pupils’ literary sensitivity and performance skills.

 

Outdoor Learning Day

On the 15^th of May 2025, the Department celebrated Outdoor Learning Day by transforming the school grounds into a creative studio. Pupils scripted and filmed short pieces inspired by PASCAL’s core values—Passion, Purpose, Perseverance—and later presented their videos in class.

 

Eco Week: Clothes Bazaar & Best Stand Award

As part of Eco Week, the Clothes Bazaar promoted sustainable fashion by encouraging donations of gently used clothing. The event not only raised awareness of textile waste but also demonstrated how sustainability can start at school. Our department’s creative efforts were further recognised with 1st place in the Best Stand Competition, led by Drama and English teacher Kiveli Hadjinicolaou.

 

Celebrating International Mother Tongue Day

On February the 21^st of February 2025, the Department honoured the beauty of linguistic diversity. Pupils created inspiring videos introducing themselves in their native languages and reflected on how their mother tongue shapes their identity. The event was a heartfelt tribute to the personal power of language as a bridge to heritage and self-understanding.

 

 

Global Citizenship in Action: Model United Nations (MUN)

Pupils in Years 5 and 6 ventured into international diplomacy through a full calendar of MUN activities. From Oxford to Valencia, they engaged in debates, workshops, and leadership training:

• Oxford Global MUN (November 2024): Debating global issues amid the academic ambiance of Oxford.

• MEDIMUN (February 2025): Hands-on training and high-level discussions in Nicosia.

• Globeducate MUN (March 2025, Valencia): Global collaboration and cultural immersion with peers from around the world.

These experiences have nurtured the next generation of globally minded, articulate leaders.

 

Kangourou Languages Competition (English & French)

This fun and challenging international competition tested pupils' grammar, vocabulary, and cultural knowledge. Our pupils excelled, with impressive results:

• English Achievement: Andriana Leda Filippou, Elinor Sarbulescu, Polly Pelides

 

Francophonie Celebrations

In March, the school celebrated French language and culture through two engaging events:

• Francophonie Day (20th March): French music, delicious croissants, and themed photo booths set a joyful tone.

• UCY Francophonie Competition: Pupils created a lively video highlighting the usefulness of learning French.

 

Juvenes Translatores

On November 28th, five senior pupils participated in this prestigious European Commission translation competition, gaining valuable insight into the art and complexity of multilingual communication.

 

Annual School Play – Clue! On Stage

The Department's beloved tradition of theatrical performance continued with Clue! On Stage, a hilarious and suspenseful whodunit inspired by the classic board game. The performance brought energy, teamwork, and laughter to the PASCAL stage.

 

International Schools Shakespeare Festival

Nineteen pupils aged 11–16 traveled to Luxembourg for this enriching event hosted by St. George’s International School. Over three days, they rehearsed and performed Shakespearean scenes alongside peers from across the globe and received expert feedback from theatre professionals.

 

Marine Globeducate Arts Competition

PASCAL’s creativity shone on an international level, with the Languages Department earning:

• 1st Prize in Performing Arts (Ages 11–14):
  Zoe Sebastian, Rubena Tsielepi, Jude Abbara, Zaina Abbara

• Creative Writing Competition – Semi-finalists:
  Yrs 1–3: Roksolana Honak
  Yrs 4–6: Eva Savvidou

• 2025 International Student Shorts Festival – 2nd Place:
  Elinor Sarbulescu

 

Inspiring the Future, One Language at a Time

From writing competitions to cultural celebrations, from diplomacy debates to dramatic performances, the Languages Department at PASCAL Private Secondary School Lefkosia continues to cultivate not only language proficiency but also global awareness, creativity, and a deep appreciation for cultural diversity.

As we look back on a year rich in achievement and forward to new challenges, we remain committed to helping every pupil find their voice—fluent, fearless, and full of purpose.