French

French lessons are taught from Year 3 to Year 6 although the pupils may start learning some French words and phrases in other year groups. We also welcome and acknowledge other languages, which our school community may speak in their home environments.

French at Gateway Primary School

At Gateway Primary School we promote the study of a modern foreign language due to its increasing importance in the modern world. French lessons provide an introduction to the culture of French-speaking countries and communities. The experience of learning and using a foreign language makes its unique contribution to the curriculum as it allows pupils to explore the lifestyle and culture of another land through the medium of its language. The lessons provide a satisfying, enjoyable and intellectually challenging experience. We intend to inspire pupils to develop a love of languages and deepen their understanding of other countries, cultures and people.

French offers children an opportunity to:

• Progress in skills through our linear curriculum allows the opportunity for pupils to gradually build on their skills (see progression of skills document for more information).
• Acquire basic skills and understanding of French with a strong emphasis placed on developing their speaking and listening skills in Lower KS2.  
• Embed further speaking and listening skills, alongside reading and writing in Upper KS2, which will gradually progress onto more complex language concepts.
• Engage in units of work about a topic to enable the learning to be both meaningful and purposeful.
• Have the introduction and revision of key vocabulary and grammatical structures built into each lesson and displayed.
• Participate in a variety of activities to learn French. For example: repeating phrases using ‘my turn, your turn’; singing songs; playing games; role play real life situations; listening to short French films; reading a variety of texts; and writing for a purpose.
• Have a curriculum which enables pupils to express their ideas and thoughts in French, and provides opportunities to interact and communicate with others both in speech and in writing.
• Expose pupils to authentic French, so the lessons offer regular opportunities to listen to native speakers.

French lessons at Gateway allow children to:

• Grow into curious, confident and reflective language learners.
• Deepen their understanding of the meaning of words and sentences.
• Embed a variety of learning skills and develop confidence to try something new.
• Develop social interaction through listening, speaking, reading and writing.
• Provide them with a foundation that will equip them for further language studies.
• Foster a sympathetic attitude towards the culture and people of a foreign country.