MFL

Curriculum Lead: Isabel Rowe

Intent

The intent of the Foreign Languages curriculum at Howard Junior School is to foster a love for learning languages and to provide our pupils with a solid foundation in language acquisition. We believe that learning a foreign language enhances cultural understanding, develops communication skills, and promotes a global perspective. Our overall aim is to ensure that every child becomes confident in their ability to communicate effectively in at least one foreign language by the time they leave our school.

To achieve this intent, we have established the following key principles:

1. Inclusivity: We believe that all pupils should have equal opportunities to engage with language learning, regardless of their cultural or linguistic background. We promote inclusivity through differentiated teaching approaches, additional support for pupils with special educational needs, and resources that cater to diverse learning styles.
2. Engagement: We strive to create an engaging and inspiring environment where language learning is enjoyable. We incorporate a variety of innovative teaching techniques, educational resources, and cultural experiences to captivate our pupils' interest and encourage active participation.
3. Progression: Our curriculum is structured to ensure a gradual progression in skills and knowledge from early years to upper primary. We carefully sequence learning objectives and build on prior knowledge, enabling pupils to develop their language skills in a logical and coherent manner.
4. Relevance: We believe in ensuring that language learning is relevant and meaningful to our pupils' lives. We aim to make connections between language learning and their own experiences, cultural diversity within the UK, and broader global contexts. This relevance helps to motivate learners and deepen their understanding of the language and culture they are studying.

Implementation

The outstanding implementation of the Foreign Languages curriculum in our Primary school involves the following strategies:

1. Collaborative Planning and Assessment

Our teachers work collaboratively to plan and deliver high-quality language lessons. They engage in regular professional development to enhance their subject knowledge and pedagogical skills. Assessment is an integral part of our teaching practice, with ongoing monitoring and formative feedback to inform instruction and ensure progression.

2. Cultural Immersion

We promote a whole-school approach to language learning by exposing our pupils to different cultures and languages. We invite native language speakers and cultural ambassadors to deliver workshops, assemblies, and special events. Immersion experiences such as foreign language days, cultural festivals, and virtual international exchanges provide pupils with authentic opportunities to use the language in real-life contexts.

3. Linguistic Variety

We believe in the importance of exposing our pupils to a range of languages (mainly Spanish) to broaden their horizons and deepen their understanding of the world. This exposure helps pupils become more flexible in their language learning and appreciate linguistic diversity.

4. Communicative Approach

Our pedagogy is centred around communicative language teaching methods. We prioritise developing pupils' speaking and listening skills and gradually integrate reading and writing as their confidence grows. Our lessons emphasise authentic communication, using role-plays, group work, and interactive activities to encourage active participation and foster language production.

5. Cross-Curricular Integration

We integrate language learning with other subjects to strengthen cross-curricular links. Opportunities to apply language skills are provided in subjects such as Geography, History, and Literacy. For example, pupils may research a country's culture and present their findings in the target language, or engage in discussions on global issues.

6. Technology Integration

We harness the power of educational technology to enhance language learning. Interactive language learning platforms, language apps, and online resources are utilised to engage and motivate pupils. We also encourage the use of classroom technology such as interactive whiteboards and multimedia tools to promote language acquisition and cultural understanding.

Impact

The impact of our Foreign Languages curriculum is evident in the achievements and attitudes of our pupils. We expect to see the following outcomes:

1. Fluency and Accuracy: Pupils demonstrate confidence and fluency in communicating in the target language. They can express their thoughts, ideas, and feelings effectively, using appropriate vocabulary and grammar.
2. Cultural Understanding: Pupils develop an appreciation of cultural diversity and intercultural understanding. They demonstrate knowledge and understanding of cultural practices, traditions, and celebrations of different countries.
3. Confidence and Motivation: Pupils approach language learning with enthusiasm and are motivated to explore other languages and cultures. They believe in their ability to learn languages, take risks, and persist in their language learning journey.
4. Cross-Curricular Skills: Pupils transfer language skills to other areas of the curriculum and show an increased ability to make connections between different subjects, promoting a holistic and integrated learning experience.
5. Attainment and Progress: Pupils should consistently make progress in their language learning journey, meeting or exceeding age-related expectations. Formal assessments and formative feedback inform teaching and intervention strategies, ensuring continuous improvement.

In conclusion, our outstanding intent, implementation, and impact in Foreign Languages at our Primary school ensure that our pupils develop a love for language learning, acquire essential linguistic skills, and develop a global mindset. Through inclusive, engaging, and relevant language experiences, we equip our pupils with the tools they need to thrive in an increasingly interconnected world.