Modern Foreign Languages
At Graven Hill Primary and Preschool, we believe that learning a modern foreign language opens children’s minds to the wider world and helps them to develop curiosity, confidence and cultural awareness. Language learning encourages children to listen carefully, communicate clearly and appreciate different ways of life, laying strong foundations for future learning and global citizenship.
Our Modern Foreign Languages curriculum is designed to be enjoyable, inclusive and stimulating. Through engaging lessons, children develop a positive attitude towards languages and begin to see themselves as capable communicators in another language.
Our Modern Foreign Languages Curriculum
Modern Foreign Languages are introduced in Key Stage 2, where children follow a carefully sequenced programme of study designed to build knowledge, skills and confidence over time.
Pupils complete:
- Two years of French, followed by
- Two years of Spanish
This structure allows children to develop depth and security in one language before applying their language‑learning skills to a second. By the end of Key Stage 2, pupils have experienced learning two different languages and have a strong foundation for further study at secondary school.
Language Skills and Progression
Across both French and Spanish, children are taught to develop the four key language skills:
- Listening – understanding spoken language, instructions and simple conversations
- Speaking – responding confidently, asking and answering questions and using accurate pronunciation
- Reading – recognising familiar words, phrases and simple texts
- Writing – recording ideas through words, phrases and sentences
Vocabulary is taught in meaningful contexts and organised around familiar themes. As children progress, they are encouraged to recall and reuse language, build simple sentences and communicate with increasing accuracy and confidence.
Enjoyment, Confidence and Cultural Understanding
Our MFL curriculum places strong emphasis on enjoyment and participation. Children learn through a variety of approaches including songs, games, stories, role‑play and conversational activities, helping to build confidence and enthusiasm for language learning.
Alongside language skills, pupils develop an awareness of cultural similarities and differences. They learn about countries where French and Spanish are spoken, exploring traditions, daily life and celebrations. This helps children to develop respect, curiosity and understanding of the wider world.
Learning for Life
Learning a language supports wider skills such as memory, listening, problem‑solving and communication. It also strengthens links with literacy and geography, helping children to recognise patterns in language and make connections across the curriculum.
Our approach encourages children to take risks, practise regularly and view mistakes as part of the learning process, fostering resilience and a growth mindset.
Preparing Children for the Future
Our Modern Foreign Languages curriculum ensures that children leave Graven Hill with:
- Experience of learning two modern foreign languages
- Secure foundations in listening, speaking, reading and writing
- Confidence to communicate in another language
- An understanding of different cultures and ways of life
- A positive attitude towards language learning
By providing a structured, engaging and progressive languages curriculum, we prepare children to continue their language learning with confidence and curiosity as they move into the next stage of their education.