Modern Foreign Languages (MFL)

To learn a language is to foster an interest in cultures, ideas and people outside of our own experiences. A language opens the door to other countries and communities and instils a curiosity that deepens pupils’ knowledge of the world. At Staplehurst, we believe that language learning is fundamental to empowering our children to be part of a global community, as is reflected in our school ethos.

At Staplehurst, we use the Language Angels scheme, and it focuses on the three central pillars of language assessment: phonics, vocabulary and grammar. The National Curriculum states that language learning and teaching must enable pupils to understand and communicate ideas through reading, writing, listening and speaking. By developing the phonics, vocabulary and grammar, we ensure that have the tools necessary to do this.

At Staplehurst, we follow a long-term plan that spans all year groups, to allow clear progression of the language, with revision and repetition to develop a solid foundation of the French language. Through these lessons, children are exposed to stories, songs and vocabulary produced and spoken by native speakers as a part of the Language Angels scheme. Authenticity of resources and encouraging children to use the language as much as possible is an essential part of language learning and practice, and reinforces familiarity with the rhythms, sounds and intonations of French.