Intent
All learners at Bishop Tufnell Primary School have the right to an authentic, relevant and rich learning experience that includes the learning of the basics of an additional language. The study of Languages is integral when preparing pupils to participate in a rapidly changing world in which work and other activities are increasingly carried out in languages other than English.
Language learning cultivates confidence and provides an opening to other cultures. Pupils use language to communicate information respectfully and creatively; learning how to use languages to enable access to ideas and experiences from a diverse range of people, communities and cultures across our school and wider demographic. Furthermore, understanding a modern foreign language increases a child’s understanding of their own language, and the fundamental building blocks which form this.
The process of learning a foreign language reinforces fluency and understanding of grammar, syntax, sentence structure and verbal accuracy. Increased capability in the use of languages, can also promote initiative and independence as well as encouraging diversity within society.
We teach a curriculum that enables our learners to become effective users of language, and show an understanding and respect of different cultures in our local, national and worldwide communities. Through the teaching of French at Bishop Tufnell Primary School, we strive to:
- Ensure every child has the opportunity, throughout Key Stage 2, to study French as a foreign language; developing their interest in the culture of other nations, communities and beliefs.
- Ensure learners have access to high-quality teaching and learning opportunities and specialist language teachers.
- Ensure learners have exposure to simple commands including day-to-day French language, including days, months, numbers and classroom instructions.
- Ensure learners develop an increased wider cultural understanding through our enriched and varied curriculum to which languages contribute.
- Provide language informed by the National Curriculum and the skills expressed in this: Listening, Speaking, Reading, Writing and Cultural Understanding.
Implementation
Teachers in Bishop Tufnell Primary School work in curriculum teams to complete their planning, preparation and assessment of the MFL curriculum. Within their planning time, teachers have access to a comprehensive scheme of work – Early Start Languages – which covers all aspects of the MFL curriculum: speaking, listening, reading, writing and cultural understanding. Early Start builds and progresses these skills and knowledge throughout years 3-6.
Activities can consist of actions, rhymes, stories, song, drama, grammar focus, video clips, air writing, sentence structure, dictionary work, book making and many more creative ways to extend, embed and combine essential language skills.
Impact
Our MFL curriculum is fun and enjoyed by teachers and 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;
- 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.