Vision 

At Lady Joanna Thornhill (Endowed) Primary School, we are committed to embedding a positive attitude to language learning. The aims of MFL teaching are: to foster an interest in language learning by introducing children to French in an inclusive way that is accessible to all pupils; to develop children’s confidence in speaking in the target language by encouraging them to join in songs, rhymes stories and games, which enable them to practise the language in an enjoyable and non-threatening way; to help children to develop their awareness of cultural similarities and differences; to lay the foundations for future language study by pupils; and to support linguistic understanding of the first language.

Our sequence of learning follows our Head, Heart and Hand curriculum because Modern Foreign Language teaching is underpinned by an awareness, understanding and respect of different cultures, customs and traditions. We model how to develop a global understanding of the differences and similarities between people, places and nations; and appreciate and celebrate linguistic diversity within our class and the wider school community. Where possible, Lady J creates links with parents and the local community to learn about different cultures and traditions of which they have experience. We aim to develop international partnerships to grow in the children’s understanding of cultural and linguistic differences and the importance of celebrating and respecting this diversity.

Not only does this demonstrate our Core Value of Compassion, this is also a reflection of the Heart learning, while solid understanding and application of the skills of Listening, Speaking, Reading, Writing and Grammar link to learning with the Head. Finally, pupils have many opportunities to learn MFL practically; through surveying peers, playing games and conducting role play, to name a few, which demonstrates our Core Value of Collaboration and learning with the Hand. Through our scheme of learning, pupils are continually showing Resilience and applying previous learning to help them understand new language content and demonstrate Curiosity in how to express themselves, as well as how to understand and connect with others.