In Conversation with Dr Angie Knaggs

At Somerset College, language is more than a subject—it’s a gateway to connection, culture, and global citizenship. As an IB World School, we are proud to invite our community to an inspiring In Conversation Evening with Dr Angie Knaggs, Senior Fellow of the Higher Education Academy and a leading academic from the School of Languages and Cultures at The University of Queensland.

In this thought-provoking session, Dr Knaggs will explore:

• Why learning another language is more relevant than ever in an AI-powered world
• The myth of AI translation replacing real language learning
• The cognitive, economic, and personal benefits of being multilingual in a globally connected society

At Somerset College, we place immense value on the study of a second language—not only for its academic benefits but also for the lifelong skills it nurtures. Students who engage in language learning often see a positive impact on their ATAR, with language subjects contributing strongly to scaling outcomes in Year 12. But the advantages extend far beyond numbers.

In an era shaped by artificial intelligence and rapid global change, diverse, human-centred skills—like communication, cultural fluency, and critical thinking—will set our students apart. Being multilingual isn’t just impressive—it’s strategic. It opens pathways to global careers, fosters adaptability, and allows young people to engage meaningfully in a world where AI can translate words but not human understanding.

To learn more about Dr Angie Knaggs, please click here.

This is an educational opportunity for our Somerset parents with children across all year levels, and students in Years 10, 11, and 12. It will be held at Somerset College (venue to be announced closer to the event date).

Join us to explore why languages are vital to an International Baccalaureate education and how they equip our students for a future where they won’t just keep up—they’ll lead.