"If you talk to a man in a language he understands, that goes to his head. If you talk to him in his own language, that goes to his heart." Nelson Mandela

Intent

At St Catherine’s our intent is to deliver a Modern Foreign Languages curriculum that fosters our pupils' curiosity in order to deepen their understanding of the wider world. Through studying a modern foreign language, our pupils will develop their ability and ambition to communicate with native speakers in speech and writing. It will encourage them to broaden their horizons and to step beyond familiar cultural boundaries and develop new ways of seeing the world.

We endeavour to provide every Key Stage 2 child with a wealth of experiences that will allow them to develop the ability to communicate effectively, not only in spoken French, but also through reading, writing and listening. MFL teaching will provide the foundation for St Catherine’s pupils to become language learners, equipping them with skills that will allow them to study and learn other languages.

We chose to study the language of our close neighbours, France. Many of our pupils visit France and so have the opportunity to put their learning into practice and develop their language skills further. French is a language that is recognised worldwide and used in many other countries in addition to France. French also has strong connections to the English language and this helps pupils make important connections which support their understanding.

Teaching and Learning

We have chosen to follow the Salut programme of study as this provides a comprehensive, progressive study of French that systematically builds upon previous learning. This programme also enables all teachers to deliver the subject with confidence right from the start. Salut was introduced at St Catherine's in September 2021.

Home Learning

Pupils and their families can use BBC Bitesize to support and further their learning at home.

Events

In September 2022, we plan to hold our first French themed day across the school to kick-start our lessons for the new academic year.