Modern Greek language - UK school

[Tangi88]

Hello,

We live in London and we would like our child to learn modern Greek at primary school as a language (such as Spanish, French etc.) but we can't find any school that teaches modern Greek.

Can you please let me know if you know any schools primary or even secondary that teach modern Greek?

I don't mind if you know only independent ones or if they are not in London as we are willing to relocate for it.

Also, based on my research many schools (mainly independent) teach classics but that would be Latin and ancient Greek, not modern, hence the issue.

Thank you!

[InTheLongGrass]

Is it a language you have connections with? I'd suggest seeing if the local Greek community run a Saturday school to teach language skills.
This is what we did with DHs minority language - he now buys the books the school used and is teaching the kids at home, but it is his first language, although his English is probably stronger. Saves 2 hrs of traveling every weekend!
Foreign language teaching at primary is more about a introduction to foreign languages rather than lessons that enable communication, imo.

[Tangi88]

Thanks so much for the reply and help!

Yes, it’s our first language too, reason why we would like our DC to learn to read/write in Greek and not only speak Greek.

We could teach the language at home but having a curriculum and a tutor I think it is more efficient, although it also depends on each child.

There are Saturday schools but as you said we will spend all Saturday traveling which is not great...

If there was a primary school that teaches Greek as a foreign language that would be ideal for us but it’s so hard to find any, if they exist!

I also don’t think that it’s too early for a second language to be taught at primary school. In Greece, for example, kids start learning English (reading,writing,listening,speaking) at the age of 7 years old.

[baumwolle]

It'd be Greek medium, but the Greek Primary School? They learn English as a second language from the start.

[InTheLongGrass]

I wasnt saying it's too early, just that much primary school foreign language teaching in England is done by none specialists, and is very basic. The level of French language my 9 year old has after several years of lessons wouldnt really help in a family situation.
So, if you find a school other than the one linked above, check the standard of language the kids reach.

[EdithWeston]

It might be worth getting in touch with your nearest Greek Orthodox Church/cathedral (there are several in London) and seeing if they have any recommendations.

The DC I know who speak Greek all learned at home (bilingual families) from parents with a bit of formal tuition from time to time, which doesn't help you directly other than demonstrating that tutors exist.

[KaptainKaveman]

You won't find a primary school which teaches Greek. They are far too busy teaching the established curriculum.

All the Greeks in North London attend Greek school at the weekend - there are loads of them.

[Tangi88]

Thank you all for your ideas! It’s really appreciated and helpful x