We see the acquisition of a second (or even a third) language as essential to successful participation in the world community; language and cultural acumen are instrumental 21st-century skills.

We aim to prepare Westtown students for an interconnected world in which people of diverse linguistic and cultural backgrounds collaborate together in the workplace of the future. Immersion in additional languages and working towards fluency are essential tools for a global world. We offer Mandarin Chinese, Spanish, and Latin.

Students who complete four years of language study will have gained:

Language immersion in the classroom, providing a high level of proficiency in communicating spontaneously in the spoken languages
Appreciation for a culture and way of thinking differently from the student’s own way of thinking
An ability to communicate by listening, speaking, reading, and writing at least one additional language
Travel abroad and language immersion opportunities in China, Cuba, Puerto Rico, Greece, and Rome, where participants gain first-hand immersion experience and close connections with local people

Latin

Latin isn’t just a window into the ancient world—it’s a key to understanding the foundations of modern language, logic, and culture. In Westtown’s Latin program, students uncover how words work, how ideas evolve, and how the past continues to inform the present. Through storytelling, translation, and cultural exploration, they strengthen their command of English, sharpen analytical thinking, and connect with timeless human themes.

As students progress, they learn to read and interpret original texts with confidence, discovering the wit, drama, and insight of Roman authors. Classroom study is complemented by opportunities like Latin Club and travel to Rome, where history and language come alive. Latin at Westtown invites students to think deeply, write and speak with clarity, and engage directly with the language and ideas that continue to shape the modern world through a classical lens.

Focus on the study of grammar, vocabulary, history and culture associated
classical Latin
Although most of the class is conducted in English, oral exercises are
conducted in Latin
Study of the etymological and syntactical connections between Latin
and English is used to increase proficiency in both languages
Students who complete a full course of study in Latin are able to translate original works of Latin authors and analyze them in the appropriate contexts of history, literature and philosophy
Student-run Latin Club
Linguistic and cultural immersion opportunities in Rome and Greece

Chinese

Learning Chinese at Westtown opens doors—to new cultures, global friendships, and ways of thinking that stretch beyond the familiar. From day one, students engage in meaningful communication, developing their ability to listen, speak, read, and write Mandarin in authentic, real-world contexts.

Interactive, immersion-style classes bring language and culture together through music, media, and conversation. As proficiency grows, so does confidence—students exchange ideas with native speakers, explore Chinese art, history, and literature, and participate in cultural celebrations on campus and abroad. With connections to partner schools in China, global immersion opportunities, and a strong, supportive community, the Chinese program helps students become not just language learners, but thoughtful global citizens ready to lead across cultures.

Focus on the study of grammar, vocabulary as well as skills in listening speaking, reading and writing
Near immersion setting
Communicative and expeditionary learning approach
Students who complete a full course of study in Mandarin are able to communicate with intermediate proficiency and engage in dialogue about Chinese culture, history and literature
Get inducted into the Westtown Chapter of the Chinese National Honor Society
Student-run Chinese Club
Linguistic and cultural immersion opportunities

Learn more about our Chinese program →

Spanish

Focus on the study of grammar, vocabulary, history and cultures associate with Spanish-speaking world
Near immersion setting
Communicative and Expeditionary learning approach
Students who complete a full course of study in Spanish are able to communicate with advanced proficiency and engage in academic dialogue about Hispanic history, literature and culture
Service opportunities through La Comunidad Hispana