Raising attainment and engaging students in the language classroom - Lessons from one of the UK’s leading Mandarin programmes: TTR Special hosted by Darren Lester

In this episode, we look into the Mandarin Excellence Programme (MEP)—a groundbreaking initiative that is transforming language learning in schools across England. With over 16,000 students benefiting from its immersive and intensive approach, the MEP is setting new standards for language education and opening doors for young learners.

Joining us are three experts deeply involved in the programme:

🔹 Julian Metcalf, Headteacher at Dartford Grammar School, shares how his school has embraced the MEP and even developed its own Japanese Excellence Programme, demonstrating how schools can apply MEP principles beyond Mandarin.

🔹 Matt Schofield, Programme Manager at the IOE, UCL’s Faculty of Education and Society, provides insights into the structure, impact, and future of the MEP, including the logistics behind the largest-ever school trip to China, which took nearly 1,200 students abroad.

🔹 Beth Fleming, an MEP Chinese teacher at Macmillan Academy, tells her inspiring story of going from student to teacher and how the programme supports the next generation of language educators.

We explore key topics such as:

✅ How the MEP has significantly boosted GCSE results and student attainment
✅ The life-changing opportunities it provides, especially for disadvantaged students
✅ How cultural immersion and overseas experiences enrich language learning
✅ Practical takeaways for MFL teachers and school leaders looking to replicate MEP's success

Whether you're a teacher, school leader, or language enthusiast, this conversation offers valuable lessons on how to enhance language learning, increase student engagement, and create global citizens.

🎧 Tune in now to discover what makes the Mandarin Excellence Programme a model for success!