I trained originally in mime and theatre arts in Paris. As a mime artist and a musician, clearly involved in innovative ways of communication, I became interested in teaching and learning.
I subsequently taught secondary level French at Impington Village College, Cambridge, for a period of fourteen years. During this time I began to initiate and develop creative ways of teaching French – especially at early secondary level. Impington became a language college in 1999 and I was asked to lead all the French teaching in the five feeder schools, from year three to year six. My innovative teaching methods, using rhythm, mime and song through guitar African djembe and Irish bodhran were acknowledged in 2001, when I received a European Award for innovation in language teaching, and was cited in the Times Educational Supplement. My teaching methodology is highlighted on the third CILT training video, where I explain how I plan for progression in language teaching from year three through to year six and into Key Stage three.
I have produced a CD of original songs, and written a textbook to support teaching and learning in the primary French classroom. Since 2002
I have delivered training seminars for teachers and students nationally at conferences, universities, and regional support groups, as part of the NACELL programme. In my role as an associate trainer for CILT, (The National Centre for Languages), I am currently involved in the UK wide initiative to introduce modern foreign languages into primary schools by 2010.
David Hicks April 2005
Contact details:
www.monsieurx.co.uk
Email:
David Hicks