Introduction

At Cam Everlands Primary School, we believe that learning a foreign language is a vital part of a well-rounded education. Our languages curriculum is designed to foster an appreciation for linguistic diversity, cultural understanding, and effective communication skills. By providing our pupils with a strong foundation in French, we aim to equip them with the knowledge and confidence to engage with the world beyond our local community.

Key Aims

Our languages curriculum has three key aims:

1. To enable pupils to understand and hold simple conversations in a range of everyday scenarios in French.
2. To develop pupils' knowledge of a broad vocabulary base that they can apply both orally and in writing.
3. To cultivate a love of language learning and an awareness of the connections between French and our own language.

Content and Skills

Throughout Key Stages 1 and 2, our pupils will learn essential vocabulary and grammar structures to support basic communication in French. This includes greetings, introductions, numbers, colours, family, food, and other everyday topics. Pupils will also explore the cultural aspects of French-speaking countries, comparing and contrasting them with their own experiences.

In addition to developing core language skills, our languages curriculum emphasises the transferable skills of listening, speaking, reading, and writing. Pupils will have regular opportunities to practice these skills through a variety of engaging activities, such as role-play, songs, games, and short written tasks.

Progression

Our languages curriculum is carefully sequenced to build upon prior learning and ensure smooth progression. In Key Stage 1, the focus is on developing pupils' foundational language skills and cultural awareness. As they move into Key Stage 2, pupils will expand their vocabulary, improve their fluency, and begin to apply their language skills in more complex scenarios.

Wider Impact

By studying languages, our pupils will not only gain practical communication skills but also develop a deeper appreciation for diversity and cultural exchange. This aligns with our school's values of respect, trust, honesty, and empathy. Furthermore, the cognitive benefits of language learning, such as improved problem-solving and critical thinking skills, will support our pupils' academic achievement across the curriculum.

Our languages curriculum is designed to inspire a lifelong love of learning and to prepare our pupils for success in their future endeavours, whether that be further education, employment, or global citizenship.