Making a Positive Difference TogetherLanguages
The rich linguistic and cultural diversity of the local community is celebrated at the school and bilingualism is viewed positively - the cognitive advantages recognised by all.
The National Curriculum in Primary Languages requires, amongst other things, that substantial progress be made in one language across Key Stage 2. At Glebe we teach French to Year 3 to Year 6.
Studying languages in primary school provides children with skills that are essential for the twenty-first century. As well as giving them the opportunity to learn a second language, an increasingly important skill in our globalised society, it also helps to promote and develop a broader intercultural understanding. The study of a second language supports children’s general literacy and oracy, by raising awareness of their own language and thereby enriching their understanding of both. At Glebe Primary School, we recognise that learning foreign languages has great value in terms of cultural and linguistic richness in our society, personal fulfilment, global citizenship and understanding.
Article 28 – Children have the right to a good quality education.
Article 29 – Education should help children to develop their talents and abilities.
Subject Co-ordinator
R Soneji
Link Governors
Ms Helene O'Shea, Mrs Surjit Nandra
Progression documents
Lessons
All pupils in KS2 have 55 minutes of weekly language learning. These are dedicated language lessons. Lessons are taught predominantly in the target language and refer to practical situations bringing learning to life.
The curriculum and lessons have been carefully mapped out to ensure progression of skills, knowledge and understanding (see MFL Progression Document). All lessons are taught with reference to the key language skills of reading, writing, listening & speaking. A wealth of resources are utilised to meet different learning needs, styles and abilities.
Intent, Implementation and Impact
Curriculum Intent
The intention of our MFL curriculum is to develop an interest in, and thirst for, learning other languages. We aim to introduce the learning of the French language and the understanding of its culture in enjoyable and stimulating ways. We will embed the essential skills of listening, reading, speaking, and writing.
Our aim is to build the children’s ‘culture capital’ so that they are aware of similarities and differences between cultures. In short, we hope to lay the foundations for future language learning.
Curriculum Implementation
Glebe uses the i Languages learning programme to implement French teaching in Years 3-6.
The programme has carefully devised progression maps and videos and support for French pronunciation in place.
Children practice their French speaking, listening and writing and are continually assessed as the units are delivered.
Curriculum Impact
As an EAL school we ensure that the bilingual and sometimes trilingual capabilities of our children is of the utmost importance. Therefore, we consider that alongside their root language, opportunities to learn an additional language, alongside English is our core intent and therefore will ensure they have access to a wide range of cultural and linguistic opportunities in the future.
Progression Maps
/docs/French_Skills_Map_2022.pdf
International Links
In the recent past, Glebe Primary School holds the British Council’s International Award in recognition of its successful international links and collaborations. Through the Erasmus network, there are established projects with partner schools in Greece, Hungary and Poland. There are also established links through e-twinning with schools in France and Italy. These offer extensive opportunities for pupils to work on shared projects, exchange cultural learning and practise their language skills with peers in those countries
