French

Intent, Implementation and Impact

Our vision for MFL at Martham:

At Martham, we want all children to leave us at the end of KS2 with a love of learning languages and the foundations to continue to develop their linguistic skills as they move to KS3 and beyond. Learning a modern foreign language enables children to develop their cultural knowledge and understanding.

Intent:

At Martham we believe that learning a language is a necessary part of being a member of the multicultural society in which we live. Learning a language will help to build upon communication skills and the application of phonics. It increases children’s self esteem. We believe children really enjoy learning to speak another language. The foundations of the language skills taught within our primary school will enable children to build upon their love of languages as they move beyond KS2 and enable them to develop this skill at both KS3 and in the wider world. 

Implementation:

For French at Martham, we introduced the 'Rigolo' scheme of work in September 2022. This helps us to ensure that children are immersed in French within our school and have the opportunity to practise their speaking, listening, reading and writing skills. We believe children can use the skills learnt during foreign language lessons to identify the similarities between themselves and others. We are beginning to expose children from a much younger age, KS1, to elements of French as we feel the earlier they are exposed the more they will understand the application of the language. 

From Year 3 through to Year 6 the 'Rigolo' scheme of work is used.  This resource is supplemented with games, stories and songs to support our French learning. Martham's programme of study is in line with the requirements of the Primary Languages Curriculum. Following the Rigolo programme, our children study six units in each year group; twenty four in total over their four years at Martham. Each unit and each new year aims to build on the knowledge from the previous. The units include learning about countries, cultures, peoples and communities.

In addition, we look for opportunities for the children to practise their French speaking skills outside of their French lessons. Doors, displays and areas around the school are labelled in both French and English to ensure that there is regular practice and understanding.

Impact:

French has a strong presence at Martham, with our children using the key vocabulary beyond the lessons at every opportunity. Children enjoy learning French at Martham and their confidence with language learning is clearly evident in their work.

French Curriculum Overview