Modern Foreign Languages
“A different language is a different vision of life.”
Federico Fellini
At Thornton Primary School, we are proud of our rich cultural and linguistic diversity. With many different languages spoken across our school community, our children already bring a wealth of language-learning experience into the classroom. We recognise bilingualism as a strength and believe that learning an additional language helps children develop confidence, communication skills and a greater understanding of the world around them.
French is taught to all pupils as our chosen modern foreign language. As one of the most widely spoken languages in the world, French provides children with a valuable opportunity to communicate beyond their own community and develop an appreciation of different cultures and traditions.
Our French curriculum has been carefully designed by our specialist French teacher to ensure progression in speaking, listening, reading and writing throughout Key Stage 2. Wherever possible, learning is linked to topics being studied across the wider curriculum, helping children make meaningful connections between subjects and deepen both their language skills and subject knowledge. This approach makes learning more engaging, relevant and memorable.
Lessons are designed to build children's confidence and enthusiasm for language learning. Through songs, games, stories, conversations and practical activities, pupils develop their vocabulary, pronunciation and understanding of French grammar while gaining the confidence to communicate in another language. We encourage children to take risks, practice regularly and enjoy the process of learning a new language.
As a Gold Rights Respecting School, we recognise the importance of helping children understand, respect and celebrate different cultures, languages and ways of life. Learning French supports pupils in developing a wider understanding of the world and promotes the values of inclusion, respect and global citizenship.
Our French curriculum reflects our school values of Aspiration, Resilience, Teamwork, Equality and Honesty:
- Equality is promoted through celebrating the diversity of languages, cultures and backgrounds within our school and beyond.
- Aspiration encourages children to challenge themselves and develop new skills beyond their first language.
- Resilience is fostered as pupils practice, make mistakes and grow in confidence as language learners.
- Teamwork is developed through paired conversations, games and collaborative learning activities.
- Honesty supports children in reflecting on their learning and embracing new challenges with confidence and integrity.
We enrich language learning through exciting opportunities such as celebrating Bastille Day, running a French Club and participating in competitions. We are also proud of our partnership with King Edward's School, where Year 11 pupils plan and deliver memorable French lessons for our children, providing inspiring role models and valuable learning experiences.
Children are encouraged to continue their learning at home through a specialist language-learning website, where each child has their own login. This enables them to revisit learning, practice vocabulary and develop their confidence outside the classroom.
How Parents Can Support French Learning at Home
Parents and carers can support their child's language learning by:
- Encouraging them to use and practice the vocabulary they learn in school.
- Exploring French words and phrases together during everyday activities.
- Listening to French songs, watching age-appropriate French videos or reading simple French texts together.
- Helping children access and use the online learning platform provided by school.
- Talking positively about languages and celebrating the many languages spoken within our school community.
By the time children leave Thornton Primary School, we want them to have developed confidence as language learners, a curiosity about other cultures and an appreciation of the diverse world in which they live. We hope that their experiences of learning French inspire a lifelong interest in languages and communication.