SUCCESS FOR ALL

Languages programme of study:  ‘Learning a foreign language is a liberation from insularity and provides an opening to other cultures. A high-quality languages education should foster pupils’ curiosity and deepen their understanding of the world.

 

 

Curriculum Overview

The French curriculum develops pupils as confident communicators with a strong understanding of language, culture and the wider world. Through listening, speaking, reading and writing, pupils build linguistic competence, cultural awareness and a lifelong curiosity about other countries and communities. The curriculum is ambitious, inclusive and carefully sequenced to ensure pupils make sustained progress from Key Stage 3 through to success at GCSE and beyond.

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Curriculum Intent

The intent of the French curriculum is to ensure that pupils:

· Develop confidence and accuracy in listening, speaking, reading and writing in French.

· Acquire and apply core vocabulary and grammar, enabling them to communicate for real purposes.

· Understand and appreciate French-speaking cultures, traditions and perspectives.

· Communicate opinions, ideas and information with increasing complexity and independence.

· Develop transferable skills including communication, literacy, problem-solving and cultural empathy.

· Recognise the value of languages for future study, careers and global citizenship.

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The curriculum prepares pupils for GCSE French and supports progression to A Level languages and a wide range of future pathways.

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Curriculum Design and Sequencing

The French curriculum is carefully sequenced to build vocabulary, grammar and communicative confidence over time, with regular opportunities for retrieval and revisiting prior learning.

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Key Stage 3 Progression

· Pupils begin by developing foundational language skills, including personal information, family, descriptions, opinions and everyday routines.

· Early topics focus on identity, relationships, free time, school and local area, allowing pupils to communicate about familiar contexts.

· Grammar is introduced progressively, including present, past and future tenses, agreement, word order and key structures.

· Pupils explore cultural themes, such as festivals, traditions and daily life in French-speaking countries.

· Increasing emphasis is placed on expressing opinions, giving reasons and comparing ideas.

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Key Stage 4 Progression

· Pupils study GCSE themes including Identity and Relationships, Healthy Lifestyles, Education and Work, Travel and Tourism, Technology and The Environment.

· They develop the ability to discuss past, present and future events with increasing accuracy and fluency.

· Pupils explore global and social issues such as environmental responsibility, digital influences and healthy choices.

· Cultural learning is embedded through discussion of French-speaking countries, customs and careers.

· The curriculum includes structured exam preparation and revision, ensuring pupils are confident with all assessment skills.

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This sequencing ensures pupils progress from simple communication to confident, extended responses by the end of Key Stage 4.

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Curriculum Implementation

The French curriculum is implemented through:

· Explicit teaching of vocabulary and grammar, supported by modelling and guided practice.

· Regular opportunities for speaking and listening, including structured dialogue and spontaneous responses.

· Use of authentic and adapted texts to develop reading comprehension.

· Frequent retrieval practice to secure long-term memory.

· Ongoing formative assessment, including feedback on accuracy and communication.

· Summative assessments aligned with GCSE assessment objectives.

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Teaching is inclusive and supportive, enabling all pupils to participate confidently and make strong progress.

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Curriculum Impact

The impact of the French curriculum is demonstrated through:

· Pupils becoming confident, independent language learners.

· Secure application of vocabulary and grammar across all four skills.

· Improved cultural awareness and global understanding.

· Strong outcomes in GCSE French.

· Pupils recognising languages as a valuable asset for future education, careers and international opportunities.

Pupils leave the French curriculum equipped with communication skills and cultural understanding that support success in further study and life beyond school.

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Accessibility and Inclusion

The French curriculum is designed to be inclusive and accessible:

· Vocabulary and grammar are broken down into clear, manageable steps.

· Visual supports, repetition and modelling support understanding.

· Structured speaking and writing frames build confidence.

· Opportunities for challenge and extension support higher-attaining pupils.

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Through this inclusive approach, all pupils are supported to succeed and develop a positive relationship with language learning.

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Curriculum Map