Languages are more than just a means of communication, they are a bridge to culture, identity, and belonging. At Cambridge School of Bucharest (CSB), our diverse language programme is at the heart of our commitment to nurturing confident, globally minded students. In this Q&A, we speak with one of our dedicated language teachers, who shares her perspective on the joy of teaching Turkish, the importance of CSB’s eight-language offering, and the ways in which languages shape students’ futures. Her reflections highlight how teaching at CSB goes beyond academics, supporting both personal growth and cultural pride.
Q: What do you enjoy most about teaching languages at CSB?
What I enjoy most about teaching Turkish at CSB is being able to connect students to their cultural roots while also equipping them with strong language skills. Many of my students are Turkish children growing up in Romania, and for them, it is more than just a subject — it is a bridge to family, identity, and heritage. I find it very rewarding to help them strengthen their sense of belonging by deepening their understanding of their mother tongue. I also enjoy their enthusiasm when they see connections between what they learn in school and their daily lives at home with family. Teaching Turkish here means I am not only building academic skills but also preserving cultural identity for future generations. It feels like meaningful work that goes beyond the classroom. I also enjoy the freedom to make lessons creative, with songs, stories, and cultural activities. Above all, what I love most is the joy of seeing my students grow proud of their language and heritage.
Q: CSB offers eight languages, comprising of four native language options, and three Modern Foreign Languages (MFL). Why does this matter?
The fact that CSB offers eight languages is very significant because it reflects the school’s dedication to preparing students for a multicultural and interconnected world. When students are exposed to many different languages, they develop respect and appreciation for diversity. This matters particularly in Romania, where students often live in bilingual or multilingual environments. For my native language students, they understand that language learning is a shared journey, even if the languages are different. Having eight languages available also shows students that their heritage language is valued equally alongside global languages like Spanish, French, or German. This recognition motivates them to take pride in learning Turkish. It also gives families reassurance that the school is committed to honouring cultural identity while promoting international-mindedness. In practical terms, multiple language options prepare students for future studies, careers, and travel. It allows them to imagine a future where they can operate across borders and cultures.
Q: How do you see languages shaping students’ futures?
Languages shape students’ futures in profound ways, especially for those who grow up as expat students in Romania. Knowing their mother tongue language strengthens their ties to their family and heritage, giving them a firm foundation of identity. This sense of belonging helps them feel secure as they move between cultures. On a practical level, multilingualism gives students a competitive edge in education and careers.
Q: How does CSB support you as a teacher?
CSB supports me as a teacher in many meaningful ways. First, the school provides the resources and materials I need to make classes engaging and effective. I also feel encouraged to design creative lessons that include cultural elements such as music, celebrations, and history, which make learning richer for my students. CSB values cultural identity, and that support makes my role in teaching Turkish even more important. I appreciate that the administration listens to teachers’ voices and involves us in decisions about curriculum and school activities. The environment is very collaborative, so I feel supported not only by the leadership but also by my colleagues. CSB also invests in professional development, which allows me to grow as an educator and bring new methods to my classroom. I also feel supported through the inclusive and respectful atmosphere, which motivates students to participate actively in class. The recognition and appreciation for teachers’ work at CSB is another source of motivation. Overall, the support I receive makes me feel valued and inspires me to do my best for my students.
Q: What makes teaching at CSB unique compared to other schools?
Teaching at CSB is unique because of the way it brings together different cultures and languages under one roof. Unlike many schools, CSB doesn’t treat languages as an add-on but as a central part of education. This philosophy creates a learning environment where students truly value language and culture. Another unique feature is the multicultural atmosphere, where students who speak different languages learn side by side. This creates mutual respect and broadens everyone’s perspectives. CSB also emphasizes experiential learning through cultural activities, festivals, and projects, which bring languages alive outside the classroom. Compared to other schools, the sense of community here is stronger, with families, teachers, and students working together to value education and culture. It is unique because students are encouraged to grow academically while also staying connected to their roots. Teaching in this environment makes me feel that I am contributing not just to education but also to cultural preservation and global understanding.
At Cambridge School of Bucharest, we are proud to offer one of the most comprehensive language programmes in the region, with eight languages that reflect both global and heritage perspectives. Our teachers’ passion and expertise ensure that students are not only prepared for academic and professional success, but also empowered to embrace their identities and connect meaningfully with the world around them. This is what makes our community thrive — a place where confidence, success, and belonging are built through the power of language and culture.