French at Oldswinford

Learning a foreign language is part of the primary National Curriculum and is a requirement for all children within key stage 2.   Each class receives weekly French lessons, delivered by the class teacher. Our aim is to develop the confidence and competence of each child in the language of French. By the end of their primary school journey, the children will be passionate, curious and driven to continue their learning into secondary education. 

Emphasis is placed on developing the skills of speaking, listening, reading, writing and grammar. Additional lessons in phonics and cultural understanding take place throughout each year group.  Lessons are planned using 'Language Angels' scheme of work, supplemented with stories, games, songs and rhymes through 'Rigolo'.   The lessons are designed to motivate, captivate and interest the children from the first moment.  

What a fabulous French themed day we had!  All the children made a great effort to wear red, white and blue. Year 3 introduced our assembly with a French counting song, followed by a well known story, 'The Very Hungry Caterpillar' (in French of course) and ended with a quiz. Did you know that a person in France can eat the weight of an average 6 year old in a year?

Each year group enjoyed a variety of activities throughout the day.  Everyone enjoyed their visit to the cafe, sampling some fine French cuisine.  Some of the favourites were croissants, pain au chocolat and crepes.  

The weather just about held up for us to take part in a game of 'Petanque'.  The children enjoyed this so much, that they have asked for more sets to use during playtimes and PE lessons.  

There were some messy and challenging tasks that were met with enthusiasm and determination.  Early Years and KS1 attempted to build the Eiffel Tower out of Lego, building blocks and sticky straws with glue.  KS2 meanwhile built their Eiffel Towers out of masking tape and straws and spaghetti and marshmallows.  Year 3 even made a human tower!

We were very lucky to have a few parents and a Secondary student who joined us for the day.  Between them, they have lived and worked in France, taught French and were even born and raised in France.  Thank you to Mrs Dunn, Mrs Motram, Mrs Bennett, Mrs Poulet, Mrs Edgar and Freddie.