International Languages Day 2025

Mr Zalinski was delighted to welcome the school to our whole-school assembly to celebrate International Language Day. It was wonderful to hear him share his personal history with language, particularly his experiences with his Polish grandparents. His grandmother was fluent in both Polish and German, and during the war, her ability to speak German had saved her life, a story often recounted around the family table. Mr Zalinski described this skill as a “superpower” that had protected her.

He also shared how winning a language competition at school gave him the opportunity to study in Italy. This experience allowed him to meet pupils and teachers from many different backgrounds and introduced him to music and literature that he really enjoyed. It inspired him to develop conversations and shared interests with people from diverse cultures.

Mr Zalinski also spoke about his own marriage, which he described as the “United Nations of Weddings.” Held in Italy, it brought together his Polish family, his Irish wife’s family, and an Italian interpreter to translate the vows for the guests.

The assembly concluded with Mr Zalinski emphasising how learning languages has opened many opportunities in his life. He explained that languages can broaden your mind, expose you to different music and cultures, and lead to rich, rewarding experiences. Everyone applauded this engaging and inspiring assembly.