Modern Foreign Language Subject Leader: Mrs Russ

Curriculum Aims

At Gade Valley Primary School, we believe that enabling pupils to develop a love for language which provides essential and practical knowledge for them to participate as global citizens in the 21st century. Pupils are given the opportunity to develop an international outlook and gain an insight into the people and culture of other countries. Our intention is that pupils will develop a deep curiosity for language as they learn to express themselves with increasing confidence. Language learning is beneficial as it boosts self-esteem and further develops pupils understanding of English: pupils use what they learn in one language to reinforce what they have learned in another. In addition, learning a language helps our pupils to develop their CHAMP skills of Confidence, Helpfulness, Attentiveness, Motivation and Perseverance.

We believe that our Modern Foreign Language (MFL) curriculum will enable:

• The majority of pupils in each year group to be working at or above the expected level for their age.
• Pupils to acquire a deeper curiosity for language learning.
• The development of language skills to equip them for life-long learning.

How we teach MFL

At Gade Valley, pupils learn French in Key Stage 2, based on the National Curriculum Programme of Study for languages. All MFL lessons include the Gade Valley Principles of Teaching and Learning, which ensures that all pupils are challenged, learning time is maximised and clear learning goals are provided. French lessons take place weekly. We use the Kapow scheme of work and resources to ensure that the key language skills of Language Comprehension (Listening and Reading) and Language Production (Speaking and writing) are covered in an age-appropriate way across Key Stage 2. Throughout each unit, the pupils are exposed to three knowledge strands which are phonics, vocabulary and grammar. These support the pupil to develop their language knowledge on the emphasis on building their wider vocabulary. 

Our French teaching is progressive. Each unit increases in the level of challenge and linguistic and grammatical complexity as the pupils move through the early language units in Years 3 and 4, through the intermediate units in Years 4 and 5 and into the most challenging units in Year 6.  Language learning is fun and we use a variety of teaching methods, including games, role-play, songs and computer-based interactive games.

Where appropriate, we make sure that French is linked to class topics and cross-curricular themes. Occasionally, we hold special events to deepen pupils experience and knowledge of the language. For example, we held a French day where children had the opportunity to sample some of the language, culture (and food!) of France. 

Key Developments and Information for 2024/25

Up to July 2025, the following measurable impact includes:

• A new scheme of work called Kapow Geography is now fully implemented across KS2 and teachers feel supported and confident to teach French.

• Assemblies such as 'International Language Day' has been celebrated within the school.
• CHAMP4Life days expose pupils to a wider choice of other languages through enrichment activities. 
• Our pupils say that they enjoy their learning in French, especially when they can practise talking to each other in another language or when they are working collaboratively to create posters. 
• Each class in KS2 produces a poster for each unit of work, showcasing what they have learnt from the half term and celebrated.
• Monitoring of the class books indicated that regular lessons were being taught and every pupil’s work was represented over a unit of learning. 
• In 2024/25, 79% of pupils achieved age related expectations or above, with 15% achieving greater depth.