Vision

At Stanwix School, we believe that learning a language opens a window to the wider world. We aim to develop in every child a love of languages, an appreciation of different cultures and the confidence to communicate with others.

Our language journey begins in Key Stage 1, where children are introduced to simple words and phrases through songs, stories, games and cultural experiences. In Key Stage 2, pupils continue to develop their awareness and enjoyment of languages through the Salut programme. Core modules are revised regularly, enabling children to consolidate their vocabulary and build confidence before progressing into Key Stage 3. Children are also introduced to the broader curriculum.

French is our main modern foreign language and is taught throughout Key Stage 2. We use the Salut programme as a foundation for our curriculum, supplemented by a range of additional resources and activities to meet the needs and interests of our pupils.

We want children to see language learning as enjoyable, meaningful and relevant to their lives. By introducing languages from an early age, we aim to establish positive attitudes towards language learning and provide foundations that children can build upon throughout their education and beyond.

We also recognise the importance of celebrating the many languages and cultures represented within our wider school and global community. While French is our principal language, children are encouraged to develop curiosity and respect for other languages and cultures.

Aims and Objectives

The aims and objectives of our Modern Foreign Languages curriculum are to:

• foster a curiosity and enthusiasm for learning languages;
• introduce children to another language in an enjoyable, engaging and accessible way;
• develop children's confidence in using language to communicate;
• develop listening, speaking, reading and writing skills;
• help children understand that language has structure and that languages differ from one another;
• develop an understanding and appreciation of different cultures, traditions and ways of life;
• encourage children to recognise and celebrate cultural diversity;
• provide children with opportunities to use language in meaningful and practical contexts;
• develop children's understanding of basic grammatical structures;
• work collaboratively with others through pair and group activities;
• lay strong foundations for continued language learning at secondary school and beyond.

Organisation

French is taught for approximately 30 minutes to 45 minutes each week in Key Stage 2.

Children also experience the incidental use of French throughout the school day. For example, French vocabulary and phrases may be incorporated into the register, classroom routines, greetings and other everyday interactions.

A specialist French teacher supports the teaching of French and works alongside class teachers to contribute to planning, resources and the development of the curriculum.

Where appropriate, pupils are given opportunities to hear a range of voices, including those of native or fluent French speakers, helping them to develop their listening skills and confidence in communicating.

Curriculum

French is the main modern foreign language taught at Stanwix School. Our curriculum is based on the requirements and aims of the National Curriculum and is adapted through the Salut programme and additional resources to reflect the context, needs and abilities of our pupils.

Throughout their language learning journey, children are taught to:

• listen attentively and respond appropriately;
• ask and answer questions, using appropriate pronunciation and intonation;
• develop and use a growing bank of vocabulary;
• memorise and recall words and phrases;
• understand and communicate simple ideas;
• develop an awareness of basic grammatical structures;
• recognise patterns and similarities between French and English;
• work collaboratively in pairs and groups;
• develop confidence in speaking French;
• read and understand familiar words, phrases and short texts;
• develop their ability to write simple words, phrases and sentences;
• develop their knowledge and understanding of French culture and daily life;
• make connections between language, culture and communication.

The curriculum is progressive, with vocabulary and structures revisited regularly so that children can consolidate their learning and gradually develop greater independence.

Teaching and Learning Styles

We provide a varied and engaging approach to language teaching, ensuring that lessons are accessible and enjoyable for all pupils.

A range of teaching strategies and activities are used, including:

• games and language challenges;
• songs and rhymes;
• stories and storytelling;
• role-play and drama;
• puppets and props;
• speaking and listening activities;
• paired and group conversations;
• interactive and multi-sensory activities;
• actions and gestures to support vocabulary recall;
• written and reading activities;
• cultural experiences and themed events.

We place particular emphasis on developing children's confidence in speaking and listening, while progressively introducing and developing reading and writing skills.

Children are encouraged to experiment with language and to have a go, even when they are unsure. We celebrate contributions and recognise effort in order to create a positive, supportive environment in which children feel comfortable taking risks with their language learning.

Where possible, language is taught in meaningful contexts so that children understand how French can be used as a genuine means of communication rather than simply as a subject to study.

We also provide opportunities for children to experience French culture through activities and themed events such as:

• French Breakfasts;
• French Cafés;
• France and Paris-themed days;
• cultural celebrations and activities;
• poster and creative competitions;
• language challenges such as the Chocolate Challenge.

Lingo Week

Lingo Week is a whole-school celebration of languages and cultures.

Throughout the week, children take part in language challenges, songs, games, cultural activities and themed experiences. Lingo Week provides opportunities for children to explore languages beyond French and to develop their curiosity about the diverse cultures and communities that make up our world.

The week reinforces the message that languages are for everyone and that communication and cultural understanding are important skills for life.

Assessment

Assessment is an integral part of the teaching and learning of French. Both formative and summative assessment are used to monitor children's progress and identify areas for further development.

Children are assessed regularly against the knowledge, skills and vocabulary appropriate to their stage of learning. Assessment may take place through:

• observation during lessons;
• questioning and discussion;
• speaking and listening activities;
• vocabulary recall;
• reading activities;
• written work;
• practical activities and role-play;
• formal assessment tasks.

There are opportunities for speaking and listening assessment during the year, alongside reading and writing assessments.

Children's work is marked appropriately, with misconceptions in spelling, vocabulary and grammar identified and addressed. Feedback is used to support children's progress and help them become increasingly accurate and confident language users.

There are no national statutory tests in Modern Foreign Languages at primary school. However, children's developing understanding of grammar is supported through the wider English curriculum, including their work on spelling, punctuation and grammar.

Monitoring and Review

The teaching and learning of Modern Foreign Languages is monitored in line with the school's approach to monitoring other curriculum subjects.

The subject leader and senior leadership team monitor the quality of teaching and learning through appropriate activities, which may include:

• lesson observations;
• scrutiny of pupils' work;
• discussions with pupils and staff;
• review of planning and curriculum coverage;
• assessment information;
• monitoring of pupil progress.

The Headteacher reports to the Governing Body on curriculum provision and pupil progress where appropriate. The relevant governor committee has responsibility for supporting and monitoring the effectiveness of curriculum provision.

The French coordinator and Headteacher liaise with local secondary schools to ensure that they are aware of the language experiences and knowledge pupils have developed by the end of Key Stage 2. This helps to support a smooth transition into the next phase of language learning.

Continuing professional development is provided where appropriate, including opportunities to work with secondary school French teachers and other language specialists.

Inclusion and Equal Opportunities

Modern Foreign Languages is an inclusive subject and all children are entitled to participate fully in language learning.

Teachers adapt activities, resources and expectations where necessary to ensure that pupils of all abilities can access the curriculum and experience success. Appropriate scaffolding, repetition, visual resources, practical activities and additional support are used to meet individual needs.

We aim to ensure that language learning reflects and celebrates the diversity of our school community and the wider world.

Conclusion

Through our Modern Foreign Languages curriculum, we aim to foster curiosity, develop confidence and give every child a lifelong appreciation of languages and the opportunities they provide.

In keeping with our school values of Kindness, Ambition, Joy and Belonging, we encourage every child to embrace new cultures, celebrate differences, communicate confidently and enjoy the excitement of learning something new.

 

 

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