“Learning another language raises awareness of the multilingual and multicultural world and introduces an international dimension to pupils’ learning, giving them an insight into their own culture and those of others.”

It is intended that when children leave Northside Primary School, they will have a natural curiosity and confidence to explore other countries, cultures and languages, accepting that, in a multi-lingual society, it is a valuable skill to be able to communicate effectively with others in another language. They will be engaged and prepared to continue language learning at their chosen secondary school.

Language at Northside Primary School
In Early Years and in Key Stage One, although French is not yet explicitly taught, teachers make meaningful links to the language through song and rhyme using aspects of the KS2 curriculum such as numbers and birthdays where possible. They participate in celebrations and other cultural events. Children with EAL will be acknowledged and aspects of their language celebrated.

In Key Stage Two, children begin to learn French- the school’s chosen modern language- as their statutory entitlement. This language is taught at our feeder secondary school.

The children follow a progressive curriculum which provides small steps for children to move forwards with their language learning and enables them to have the foundation from which to move forwards into secondary education.  KAPOW is used as the scheme which underpins planning as this has been researched as supporting a robust understanding of the language through speaking and listening, writing and modelling positive learning through practical application.

INTENT

• Foster pupils’ curiosity and deepen their understanding of the world.
• Enable pupils to express their ideas and thoughts in another language.
• Understanding and respond – both in speech and language.
• Provide the foundation for learning further languages, equipping pupils to study and work in other countries.

IMPLEMENTATION

• One French lesson, per week, in Key Stage 2.
• Lessons focus on four key learning aspects: speaking, listening, reading and writing.
• EYFS and KS1 are introduced to languages through familiar songs, stories and counting.

IMPACT

• Children have a positive attitude towards language lessons.
• Children speak with increasing confidence, fluency and spontaneity, finding ways of communicating what they want to say.
• Increased recognition of patterns between English and French.
• Children can write more extended pieces from memory in French .

What does it look like?

• EYFS/KS1 songs and familiar stories and greetings.
• KS2 – access course in line with the National Curriculum (KAPOW!).
• Upper KS2 acquire language skills more rapidly than lower KS2.
• Language teachers to promote love of language across the school (assemblies, displays, French Day).

Evidence and Monitoring

• Use of questioning in lessons
• Updating Learning Ladders
• End of Unit opportunities
• Pupil Voice by subject leaders and at School Council
• Planning monitored by subject lead and Head Teacher