Curridge Primary School

Intent:

Young children are often more open and receptive to language learning, and have an innate curiosity when learning a language, its new words and new sounds. They are confident, curious and less anxious learners. Learning a new language has also been shown to improve critical thinking skills and to enhance social skills.

• To introduce young children to another language in a way that is enjoyable and stimulating
• To develop an interest in learning other languages
• To stimulate and encourage children’s curiosity about language
• To encourage children’s confidence and creative skills through the exploration of another language
• To help children develop their awareness of cultural differences in other countries
• To develop listening, speaking, reading and writing skills
• To speak with increasing confidence, fluency and spontaneity, finding ways of communicating what they want to say, including through discussion and asking questions, and continually improving the accuracy of their pronunciation and intonation
• To lay the foundations for future language learning
• Implementation:

Languages are an essential part of a broad, balanced curriculum. Not only do they provide an opportunity to communicate more effectively with others, they also help children to understand what it is to be a global citizen. This includes the importance of tolerance and understanding, which is crucial knowledge in today’s world.

• Children have regular French lessons
• Pre-Covid, children in Year 6 spent a week in France to learn more about the country and to use their language skills. With travel restrictions now eased, we are planning to reintroduce this residential opportunity
• We integrate languages into the curriculum so it is not a stand-alone lesson. This may be counting in maths or P.E or learning about the country in geography or history
• We ensure there is plenty of repetition, practise and consolidation of  the language and the new words and phrases encountered

Impact:

Language and culture are inextricably linked, and language learning helps to cover SMSC (Spiritual, Moral, Social and Cultural development). Children learn about the different countries where the new language is spoken, and this causes them to reflect on their own surroundings and culture. They learn more about their role as a global citizen.

• Children find learning a new language fun
• Children are receptive to learning a new language and are willing to try and mimic pronunciation without inhibition or self-consciousness
• Children gain self confidence when they accomplish new skills and from learning to say something in a different language
• Children have a positive attitude towards learning a new language as well as learning more about different cultures, festivals and traditions