Edinburgh School Embraces Multiple Languages

The Edinburgh Montessori Arts School (EMAS) is a place where linguistic diversity is celebrated and nurtured. The school recognises the importance of the many languages spoken by its students, teachers, and families, with over 21 languages besides English present. This multilingual environment fosters cognitive growth, strengthens identity, and promotes connection among the students.

EMAS believes in honouring children's "language of the heart," their first languages, as a way to facilitate emotional expression and identity. Through songs, games, and interactions in different languages, the school creates an inclusive environment that encourages early language development.

The school's multilingual approach extends from Nursery to High School, with various methods, including French immersion and the addition of Spanish in Elementary. Students in Middle and High School can choose from a range of languages. EMAS highlights the benefits of multilingualism, such as improved listening skills, communication abilities, and cultural empathy, and it highlights how exposure to multiple languages enhances children's cognitive flexibility, attention control, and problem-solving skills. By embracing multilingualism, EMAS strives to create a school community where children feel a sense of belonging, develop global identities, and connect meaningfully across cultures.

Find out why language matters from the early years, and how EMAS put this into everyday practice and the benefits seen: Read full article here.