In Easter 2004 a new language laboratory, funded by an extremely generous bequest from an Old Oundelian, was opened in the Gascoigne Building. Equipped with state-of-the-art technology, the lab consists of twenty-eight pupil positions, each serviced with a computer and headphones. In addition, the room benefits from direct Satellite input, enabling viewing of television programmes in all major languages and even some of the less usual ones, such as Romanian, Bulgarian, Arabic and Chinese.

This laboratory is an invaluable aid to the teaching of modern languages within the School. As well as enabling all the traditional language laboratory activities to take place, the system permits the integration of ICT in language teaching, including controlled access to the Internet.

Other innovations incorporated in the lab include telephone dialling, whereby a pupil at one position can engage in a 'telephone' conversation with another pupil in the room, and a facility for digitising audio and video tapes and CDs, enabling a large amount of material to be stored and easily accessed.

The room will also be available for self-access study by both pupils and members of staff during Voluntary times.

Peter Lewins
Head of Modern Languages