Languages

Learning a Modern Foreign Language (MFL) not only prepares children linguistically but also cultivates an open-mindedness towards and interest different cultures. Although the government’s statutory Modern Foreign Language (MFL) requirement at primary level is uniquely targeted at KS2, children at Hugh Myddelton and Winton Primary Schools are fortunate enough to be taught French right from EYFS to the end of Year 6.

We seek to integrate this widely spoken MFL from a young age when children are more receptive and are naturally curious. Every year group receives French weekly and the duration of lessons is dependent on the children's age and attention space.

Our language lessons seek to engage children and are set in an authentic context. Language, using purposeful resources and activities: from songs and picture books to games and role plays. New vocabulary is always accompanied by visual representations and frequently tie in with our 'Talk for Writing' approach, used in story-telling in English lessons, whereby vocabulary is linked to a given action to aid recall.

The French curriculum at our schools cover the four skills of Speaking, Listening, Reading and Writing. However, we prioritise oracy so that children have the confidence to communicate and be immersed in French from a young age.

Caring: In a school with families who have such a rich range of home languages and who use English as a second language, we want to use learning French as an opportunity for all our children to experience and appreciate what it feels like to communicate in a way that is not automatic to them.

Connections: We see learning a new language as a fantastic opportunity for children to make connections between what they know and what they are learning, whether it be looking at grammar, the origins of words or simply connecting with each other in a different language is something we want our children to value.

Communication: Whilst we place great emphasis on oracy in French, our curriculum also provides rich opportunities to able to communicate through listening, reading and writing.

Curiosity: As with anything that is new to our children, we want them to be curious about the unknown and not be afraid or reluctant to want to learn something new. We see learning French as laying down the foundations to be curious about and to positively engage with any language that they may choose to study in later life.

Learning French, and how to help your child at home

Progression of skills in French

Learning French and how to help your child at home