MFL
Intent
At Gainford Church of England Primary School, we believe that learning a modern foreign language is an important part of a broad and balanced curriculum. Learning French helps pupils to develop communication skills, confidence and curiosity about other cultures, while also supporting literacy and language development.
Our French curriculum aims to ensure that pupils:
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Develop confidence in listening to and speaking French
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Read and write familiar words, phrases and simple sentences
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Understand basic grammatical structures
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Gain awareness of French culture and traditions
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Are well prepared for further language learning at secondary school
This policy reflects the National Curriculum for Languages (DfE, 2014).
Implementation
Curriculum Structure
French is taught in Key Stage 2, in line with statutory requirements. We use the Primary Language Network (PLN) scheme to deliver a well-sequenced, progressive curriculum that builds skills and knowledge year on year.
The curriculum focuses on:
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Listening and responding to spoken language
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Speaking with increasing confidence and accuracy
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Reading simple words, phrases and short texts
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Writing familiar words and sentences
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Understanding basic grammar, including gender, sentence structure and simple verb forms
Teaching and Learning
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French is taught weekly in Key Stage 2.
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Lessons are interactive, engaging and inclusive.
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Teachers model accurate pronunciation and encourage pupils to speak in full phrases.
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Repetition, songs, games, stories and visuals are used to support memory and enjoyment.
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Pupils are given opportunities to practise language in meaningful contexts.
Early Language Exposure
Although French is not taught formally in Key Stage 1, pupils may experience early language learning through songs, stories and cross-curricular links where appropriate.
Inclusion
At Gainford Church of England Primary School, we are committed to ensuring that all pupils can access and succeed in French.
Support includes:
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Clear modelling and repetition
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Visual prompts and word banks
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Adapted tasks and scaffolding
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Additional adult support where required
These strategies ensure pupils with SEND and those facing barriers to learning can participate fully and make progress.
Assessment
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Assessment in French is ongoing and formative.
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Teachers assess listening, speaking, reading and writing through observation, questioning and outcomes.
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Assessment is used to inform planning and next steps.
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The subject lead monitors standards through planning review, lesson visits and pupil voice.
Impact
The impact of our French curriculum is that pupils:
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Enjoy learning French and approach lessons with confidence
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Can communicate simple ideas using spoken and written French
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Understand basic language patterns and vocabulary
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Show curiosity and respect for other cultures
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Are well prepared for further language learning at secondary school