Intent

Our French curriculum is designed to be ambitious, inspiring and fully aligned with the National Curriculum.

We aim to ensure that all pupils develop confidence and enthusiasm for learning French through rich spoken interactions, songs, role‑play, phonics activities and creative use of technology. Children learn through first‑hand experiences that help them become increasingly proficient in speaking, listening, reading and writing.

A key focus of our intent is the systematic teaching of French sounds and phonics, enabling pupils to decode new vocabulary, pronounce words accurately and understand how sound–spelling patterns work. As pupils progress from Year 3 to Year 6, they build a secure foundation in grammar, vocabulary and everyday phrases that they can apply in real‑life situations.

We want children to develop curiosity, cultural awareness and a genuine interest in languages. Through structured progression and opportunities to use iPads for creativity, research and interactive learning, pupils become confident, aspirational young linguists who are well prepared for Key Stage 3 and equipped with valuable communication skills that will support them in future education and career pathways.

Implementation

Our planning follows a clear progression of skills and knowledge from Year 3 to Year 6. Lessons immerse children in active learning where they listen, speak, read and write in meaningful contexts. The Rising Stars scheme provides lively, interactive resources including animations, storyboards activities and vocabulary games that support rapid recall and confidence.

Phonics and French sounds are taught explicitly and revisited regularly. Children explore vowel sounds, nasal sounds, silent letters, liaison and common spelling patterns. Short phonics warm‑ups, echo reading, sound hunts and pronunciation games help pupils secure accurate and confident speech.

Speaking is developed through role‑play, drama and simple conversations, allowing pupils to practise everyday language in authentic scenarios such as cafés, shops, school routines and celebrations. These activities build fluency, resilience and enjoyment.

Technology plays a key role in enhancing learning. iPads are used for:

• recording spoken conversations and role‑plays
• creating digital vocabulary books
• practising pronunciation through audio tools
• interactive games that reinforce grammar and vocabulary
• creative tasks such as posters, videos and simple presentations

Children learn to read and write increasingly complex sentences, supported by Rising Stars materials that link sound, spelling and meaning.

Cross‑curricular links help pupils connect French to everyday life, culture, geography, celebrations and school experiences.

Assessment is ongoing through termly Warm Assessments, quizzes, teacher observation and pupil voice. This ensures teaching is responsive and supports all learners effectively.

Impact

Our approach fosters independence, curiosity and a genuine love of language learning. Pupils speak positively about French lessons and enjoy the interactive, creative and practical aspects of the curriculum. Regular monitoring and consultation with children ensure that teaching remains high‑quality and engaging.

Pupils build knowledge systematically through well‑sequenced lessons that include hooks, prior knowledge tasks, phonics, role‑play, digital creativity on iPads and written tasks.

Written work demonstrates clear progression in grammar, vocabulary and sentence structure. High‑quality work in pupils’ books is recognised, rewarded and celebrated, motivating children to strive for excellence. Through this process, pupils also develop an appreciation of French culture, broadening their cultural capital and deepening their understanding of the wider world.

By the end of Key Stage 2, children leave Marnel Junior School with a secure foundation in French sounds, vocabulary and grammar. They are confident speakers, curious learners and well prepared for the demands of secondary school and Key Stage 3.

2026-2027-progression-document.pdf