At Manor Farm Academy, we believe that pupils should have the opportunity to develop their confidence and competence when speaking French. We aim to provide our learners with a passion, curiosity and confidence when learning a foreign language.
French, in particular, is a widely spoken language in many countries, offering our pupils insights into diverse cultures and supporting them in their ability to communicate with people from different walks of life. We aim to ensure that pupils develop solid foundations in speaking, listening, reading and writing in French.
French is taught in a whole class setting by the class teacher, who plans lessons using the Language Angels scheme of work, supplemented by their own ideas and those of colleagues.
Lessons are engaging and motivating to students, with clear, achievable objectives allow them to showcase their understanding through various ways. All students are supported through adapted tasks, grouping, or adult assistance, ensuring everyone can access the curriculum. Each lesson aims to reinforce previous learning and help pupils retain new language skills.
Teaching French has a significant positive impact on students, both academically and socially.
Academically, the learning of a modern foreign language (MFL) strengthens cognitive abilities like memory, concentration, and problem solving, all of which can support pupils in their learning across other subjects. Language learning also boosts pupil’s literacy skills by improving their understanding of phonics and grammar through links between English and French.
Socially, learning French encourages cultural awareness and empathy, helping students understand and appreciate the challenges faced.
This cultural exposure builds confidence and adaptability, fostering open-minded individuals. MFL also opens up pathways for future learning and wider career opportunities. By embedding language skills early on, primary schools set the stage for lifelong language interest and a wealth of skills.
During lessons, pupils are given opportunities to converse with their peers in French, where they can recite words and phrases to each other. With the support and feedback of their class teacher, pupils will listen, repeat and reply key sounds, words and phrases in French.
Pupils are encouraged to speak in French to answer during their daily register and start to hold basic conversations with their teacher / peers.
Our KS2 pupils will showcase a range of their learning during a ‘French Day’, where each class will research and present to the school a different aspect of French life. Spanning from the delicious cuisine, rich art, historic landmarks and influential music, pupils will indulge themselves in French culture.
