"To learn a language is to have one more window from which to look at the world."

Chinese Proverb

Children are taught to develop an interest in learning other languages in a way that is enjoyable and stimulating. We encourage children’s confidence and creative skills; and strive to stimulate and encourage children’s curiosity about language. We help them develop an awareness of cultural differences through the study of language and other countries.  Skills of listening, speaking, reading and writing, which enable children to use and apply their French learning in a variety of contexts and lay the foundations for future language learning, are embedded within a well-structured curriculum.

The teaching of French at Woodstock CE Primary provides excitement, enjoyment and challenge for children and teachers, helping to create enthusiastic learners and to develop positive attitudes to language learning through life. Our French curriculum is designed to progressively develop children’s skills acquisition, and their ability to use and apply a growing bank of vocabulary organised around topics. Children are encouraged and supported to develop their speaking and listening skills through conversational work, singing activities and games. As confidence and skill grow, children record their work through pictures, captions, and sentences. French is taught weekly in all Key Stage 2 classes, and in discrete planned sessions across EYFS and Key Stage 1.  Spanish is also available as an after-school club.

We aim to build the child's 'culture capital' so that they are aware of similarities and differences between cultures. Through French lessons and wider curriculum opportunities we lay the foundations for future learning by preparing our children with the basics of the French language in readiness for their transition to secondary school, where they will continue with their MFL journey.

Further language development and country appreciation is embraced through celebrating the European Day of Languages each year.  This is an opportunity for children and the wider school community to further deepen their knowledge and understanding of the culture, traditions, geography, history of a chosen country or region – and often link to the home countries of some of children or their families. 

Assessment in French: Assessment is ongoing and informs future teaching building a picture of the child’s attainment and progress over time. There are also ‘check-in’ points throughout, and at the end of each unit against the objectives being taught. This gives teachers the information that they need to build a holistic picture of each individual child and enables them to plan further support and opportunities for retrieval; direct teaching and/or adaptation in future units. The subject leader monitors pupil outcomes to identify trends and patterns that inform future curriculum alterations and CPD opportunities.