Languages

Languages Intent

At Highfield, we aim for all pupils to develop a genuine interest and positive curiosity about foreign languages, finding them enjoyable and stimulating.  Learning French will also offer pupils the opportunity to develop a deeper understanding of other cultures and the world around them with a better awareness of self, others and cultural differences.  The intention is that they will be working towards becoming life-long language learners.

Implementation

• Our MFL curriculum is designed to progressively develop children’s skills in languages, through weekly taught lessons.
• In the infants, children take part in regular fun activities, games and songs to help them to develop oracy and awareness of basic French words and phrases using The Language Angels Scheme. In the juniors, our MFL teacher uses the Kapow scheme which builds on from this.
• Children progressively acquire, use and apply a growing bank of vocabulary organised around topics.
• Children are encouraged and supported to develop their speaking and listening skills through conversational work, singing activities and games.
• As confidence and skill grows, children record their work through a range of tailored activities to ensure that all children can access the MFL curriculum that is outlined in the national curriculum.
• Units are progressive within themselves, building on the language and knowledge taught in previous lessons. As pupils progress through the lessons in a unit, they will build their knowledge and develop the complexity of the language they use.
• To create engagement and enhance understanding, pupils participate in language events and competitions (French pen pals links, French Club, International Day, French cinema).

Impact

By the time children leave Highfield, they can use and apply their French learning in a variety of contexts and have the foundations for future language learning. Children are equipped with the core skills of listening, speaking, reading and writing necessary to access the KS3 curriculum.