South Ayrshire pupils score language win

WINNERS: South Ayrshire pupils share their prizes following the modern languages event (Image: South Ayrshire Council)

Young people from six South Ayrshire secondary schools took part in a modern languages football competition designed to combine sport, creativity and language learning.

The annual event, run in partnership with Ayr United, was held on Tuesday 28 April and brought together S3 pupils from the likes of Ayr’s Queen Margaret Academy and Troon’s Marr College.

Pupils were challenged to create and present football-themed projects in either French or Spanish as well as produce videos of football drills narrated in a foreign language and design their own virtual football teams and logos.

The projects were then presented to a judging panel featuring podcaster Sean McDonald, Ayr United representative Matthew Merry, and South Ayrshire Reads’ Sally Law.

Scott Mulholland, Director of Education, said the initiative gives pupils the opportunity to “be creative while learning and embracing multiple languages”, adding that it was “fantastic to see so many young people getting involved”.

Ayr United general manager Martin Tocker praised the quality of entries and said football has the power to inspire young people across communities, highlighting the strong effort and enthusiasm shown by all those who took part.

Marr College emerged as the overall standout performer claiming both the overall French and Spanish titles, as well as best use of Spanish language.

Prestwick Academy also impressed as they claimed the award for best use of French.

Organisers said the event is designed to make language learning more engaging by linking it to real-world interests such as sport, helping pupils build confidence, teamwork and communication skills.