Modern Foreign Languages

At Ormsgill School we believe in helping our children gain a greater understanding and awareness of other cultures and languages. We have implemented the teaching of French throughout the school, particularly in Key Stage Two. Children are expected to make progress in French which will then lay the foundations of their further study at Secondary School. Studying another language can broaden the mind to the world around us, inspire children to future ambitions beyond the United Kingdom and can often help improve understanding of their own language.

EYFS/Key Stage One

A basic understanding of other cultures and languages are taught in Early Years Foundation Stage and Key Stage One. Children may be introduced to specific vocabulary, for example, greetings and classroom commands.

Children have the opportunity to go to Infant French Club where they learn about France and other French-speaking countries. They also learn to communicate simple vocabulary in a very relaxed and fun way, through singing songs and playing games.

In addition, we have started a Spanish Club for Key Stage One this year and due to its success, hope to continue this into the next academic year (2020-2021).

Key Stage Two

Children in Key Stage Two take part in formal French lessons on a weekly basis. The lessons are taught within different French Topics (for example, colours, family etc.). In addition, teachers encourage the children to speak French in daily activities to help with their fluency and understanding.

Children have a very active role in their French lessons, learning the language through music, videos, stories, games and drama. In Year 5 and 6, the children are introduced to basic grammar and begin to recognise patterns in spelling and pronunciation. The children are also taught to read and write the language accurately.