French
We shine brightly in Modern Foreign Languages when we include an international dimension in our curriculum, teaching French from Early Years through to Year 4.
Through this teaching, we enable our pupils to understand and communicate in the French language. Initial teaching provides spoken language, progressing to a balance of spoken and written language in Years 3 and 4. Our pupils are confident and enthusiastic about their learning and we encourage them to develop a curiosity and understanding of different languages and cultures around the world. This leads to an understanding of their own national and international identity.
“One language sets you in a corridor for life. Two languages open every door along the way.” – Frank Smith (psycholinguist)
Good French teaching in our school begins in Early Years and Key Stage One. Here we give children an introduction to the French language and culture through songs, rhymes and story boxes. These develop the children’s confidence and interest before they move into Key Stage Two. Here, they engage in weekly, more structured lessons which cover all four elements of the curriculum: speaking, listening, reading and writing. There are also opportunities to practise and develop learning through resources on class iPads and through non-timetabled activities such as answering the register in French and daily weather charts.
| Well - nurtured | French for most is a new subject when they start school, so the children begin on a ‘level playing field.’ The language is available to all and we foster a growth mindset which enables children to have the confidence to try something new and to gain resilience when they make mistakes. | |
| Well - rounded |
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| Well - equipped | Children are positive and enthusiastic to learn a foreign language. They have a greater understanding of, and learn to accept diverse cultures and traditions. As a result, they are better prepared for the next steps of their education. | |
| Well - read | The younger children learn French vocabulary through a selection of story boxes. These include props and authentic French books which children of a similar age in France will know and have on their bookshelves at home. For the older children, French story books can be accessed alongside the structured French lessons if they wish to further develop their learning. | |
| Well - connected | We now live in a world where the internet and modern-day transport enable us to connect and work with people of varying cultures and backgrounds. Speaking a second language and understanding diversity will prepare our children well for life beyond school and the local area. |
