French

Our aim is to give students expertise in languages to prepare them for whatever careers they pursue. 

Our main aim of our study of Modern Foreign Languages is to be able to communicate with people from around the world, to broaden our understanding of different cultures and to foster an open mind for a global community: 

• We want to make languages accessible and engaging so that we see an increase in the number of pupils opting to study languages beyond the compulsory years 7 and 8; 

• We want to develop pupils’ confidence in a range of transferrable skills such as communicating, listening, interpreting and understanding in order to provide them with skills that will help them be successful in any professional field. 

The study of Modern Foreign Languages is an essential component in preparing young people for life in the twenty-first century. It develops a range of transferrable skills that will enable pupils to become successful in any chosen field. The course starts in Year 7 by developing pupils’ communication skills and by enriching their lives through knowledge of other cultures. We also provide pupils with the opportunity to see how languages are used and how they are useful in the world of work in a variety of ways. One example of this is with a link with Routes into Languages, where pupils can meet professionals who use languages and how they are needed in their business or career. 

We offer the chance to learn two languages from a total of three. In Years 7 – 8 students take two languages out of French, German, and Spanish. Pupils are allocated to a combination of two of these, on a yearly rotation. We start GCSEs in year 9 to spread the content needed to succeed over 3 years, giving plenty of time to practise and become confident with the examination requirements. In Years 9 – 11 students are encouraged to take a modern language, however, this is optional. In Years 12 – 13 they are encouraged to continue with their chosen language, to meet the needs of a workforce competent in other languages in an expanding European Union.

Students who choose to study a Modern Foreign Language in KS5 continue with the four language skills, listening, reading, speaking and writing. 

We aim to challenge our pupils with concepts and study skills that will make them independent learners and enable them to be successful at university level. Pupils follow the AQA A Level Curriculum which covers a range of political, social and cultural topics which enables pupils to have a greater awareness of the issues around the world. The course also develops the pupils’ independent research skills, their communication skills and their understanding. 

In addition to furthering their language skills, students will also focus on cultural aspects of the subject for formal study. This could feature knowledge of literary works, study of a film, a period of history – there are various options which staff can choose to deliver.