Intent

If you talk to a man in a language he understands, that goes to his head. If you talk to him in his own language, that goes to his heart' - Nelson Mandela

Learning a foreign language is a necessary part of being a member of a multi-cultural society and provides an opening to other cultures.  At St John's the intent of our MFL curriculum is to nurture a thirst for learning and a passion for languages. We introduce the learning of the French language at Key Stage Two and embed the essential skills of listening, reading, speaking and writing. We aim to build the children’s cultural capital so that they are aware of similarities and differences between cultures.  It is our intention to ensure that by the end of our pupils' primary education, they have acquired an understanding of both spoken and written French, confidence to speak in French with others and know how important other languages can be in their future.  In short, it is our intention to light the spark and lay the foundations for future language learning at Key Stage Three and consider the possible avenues of employment that are arise throough posessing a Modern Foreign Language.

Implementation

Our MFL curriculum has been designed to progressively develop skills in French. We are currently using  La Jolie Ronde to support the delivery of French lessons. These ensure pupils acquire a bank of vocabulary organised around topics. They ensure development is progressive as they build on previous knowledge from units already studied. All children in KS2 are taught French in a weekly discreet lesson. This is delivered by the class teacher or another qualified teacher during PPA.  The curriculum is coherently sequenced which enables our pupils to benefit from a structured and progressive programme, and over time will begin to speak, read and write French independently.

Inclusion

MFL lessons lend themselves to inclusive teaching strategies, such as the use of repetition and adopting a multisensory approach – for example, learning the alphabet and counting in a foreign language are both activities that can make great use of music and singing.  From flashcards and whiteboards to musical instruments, there are a range of teaching strategies that lend themselves to MFL teaching, thus boosting SEND pupils' chances of success and enjoyment.  More importantly the study of MFL can lead pupils to recognise that diversity is a matter for respect and celebration in a world of multiple cultures and languages. In a world where many pupils with SEND grow up feeling different to and isolated from their peers, MFL can act as a reminder that everybody in our world belongs.

Impact

Our MFL curriculum is fun and enjoyed by learners, well-resourced and planned to demonstrate progression through Key Stage 2. In addition, we measure the impact of our curriculum through:

• Pupil discussions about their learning through the use of pupil voice
• Monitoring and reflection against subject-specific skills defined in each year of study
• Children applying their knowledge of language to other areas of the curriculum
• Children applying their cultural understanding and tolerance across society and cultures

At the end of our curriculum, pupil will:

• know a range of French Vocabulary
• be able to hold a simple conversation in French
• begin to write sentences and phrases using French