Star Andrea scoops award

TALENTED pupil Andrea Smith-Valls has won an academic scholarship at Felsted School for her linguistic talent.

The 13-year-old speaks a remarkable four languages; French, German and Spanish, as well as her native English tongue.

Andrea's mother, Marta, a teacher said: "Being of Spanish origin myself has helped Andrea, but the excellent standard of teaching has developed her languages at Felsted School and in particular the fact that she will be able to take the Baccalaureate Diploma in Sixth Form."

Andrea said: "My mother started speaking Spanish to me at a very early age, I picked it up immediately. I then started learning French at school when I was four-years-old and German when I was 12."

Her father, David Smith, was particularly thrilled at his daughter's success, as he is a housemaster at the preparatory school.

He said: "It's unusual for a child of this age to have the opportunity to learn three languages and Andrea has taken full advantage of this."

Andrea's 11-year-old brother, also called David, speaks a little Spanish too and also is also a pupil at Felsted School, going into Year 7 from September.

Despite having visited Spain and France on numerous occasions with her family, the

German-speaking pupil is yet to visit the country saying: "I have not yet visited Germany but am really looking forward to doing so in the future."

The aspiring actress, who was also awarded with a drama scholarship at the school said: "I was very pleased to hear I had got it as I worked so hard for it."

Felsted Preparatory School has recently launched a new Outstanding Talent Award for children entering the school at the age 11. This can be academic or music related, but could also include other sporting or cultural talents. Contact the school for further details on 01371 822611.