MFL

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

The purpose of the 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 understand how they are needed in their business or career. 

In MFL we teach  2 lessons of languages per week on a yearly rotation with the current year 7 studying French 2 hours per week and the next intake will study German 2 hours per week. In year 8 we are currently studying 1 lesson of French per week and 1 of German.  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 

In Key Stage 3, the topics covered focus on personal information, daily life at home and abroad, travelling, food and drink, health, school, and media. Students have opportunities to develop the four language skills: listening, speaking, reading and writing. There is a strong emphasis on building confidence and proficiency in literacy and oracy. Grammar and translation skills are emphasised from the start. We aim to model classwork and assessments on the current GCSE requirements to prepare them to what is expected. We also ensure that students gain a broad understanding of the culture of countries where the languages we teach are spoken. 

In Key Stage 4, we follow the AQA specification for GCSE in French, German and Spanish. Students can choose to study a modern language, which they started in year 7. They can, of course, study both if they wish. All languages are studied at Foundation and Higher Tier, which gives access to the whole range of grades. We continue to develop the four language skills. The topics studied in Key Stage 4 include Relationships, Technology in everyday life, Culture, customs and festivals, Lifestyle, Leisure, Environment, Work and Education.