MFL
Modern Foreign Languages
Nǐ hǎo! Bonjour! Hola!
Welcome to Languages at Woodchurch CE Primary School!
“A different language is a different vision in life.”
- Frederico Fellini
Our Intent
At Woodchurch, we aim to inspire a love of learning languages. By beginning to speak and understand other languages our children will also foster curiosity, knowledge and understanding of the global society in which they live. Our vision is that our children will develop their language learning skills and gain knowledge to be able to communicate effectively and grow into all-round global citizens in a world that is rapidly changing. Furthermore, we believe that learning a modern foreign language prepares our children for life in modern Britain, in which work and activities more frequently than before involve using languages other than English; a second language moreover plays a valuable role in supporting the understanding of English. We want our children to develop a tolerance and understanding of diversity within society and an awareness of cultural differences, as well as being adventurous, inquisitive and open-minded individuals in all aspects of their language learning.
Implementation
Although Languages are mandatory for KS2 only, EYFS and KS1 children are always excited to be introduced to new languages and as a school we aim to inspire pupils in EYFS and KS1 through introducing them to songs and simple vocabulary in languages as and when they are relevant across the curriculum and into everyday school life.
As an active member of the Tenterden Rural Alliance (TRA) we have worked closely with Homewood School and Sixth Form College and our partner primary schools to develop a common KS2 language programme. Through implementing a programme to teach languages at Woodchurch, there is a clear and coherent pillar to enable progression in the curriculum across the school from phonics, to vocabulary and grammar.
Impact
Through implementing the above, our children in EYFS and KS1 become familiar with simple, key vocabulary and phrases before starting their language learning in KS2. Children's language learning in KS2 then progresses onto grammar and forming sentences which intern supports and builds our children's conversational abilities. This way we can be confident that when our children leave us to join their secondary school they will have a firm foundation in learning languages and are prepared for languages in KS3. We strive for our children to build a love for learning languages that they choose to continue studying languages once they become optional in their secondary schools and ensure that our children are able to comprehend the relevance languages have in their lives. Moreover, we also warrant our languages curriculum to allow our pupils to feel successful in their learning.