At Ashton Hayes Primary School we teach French as a modern foreign language in order to prepare our children for a rapidly changing world. Learning a foreign language prepares our children for life in modern Britain, in which work and activities increasingly involve using languages other than English.
Through learning French we want our children to:
- Enjoy using a language other then English.
- Develop a better understanding of the English language, language learning and communication.
- Develop an awareness of cultural differences and develop a tolerance of diversity within society.
- Be open-minded and adventurous in all aspects of their learning.
The earlier a child is exposed to a foreign language, the faster the language is acquired. We believe that it is a good idea to introduce a new language to children while they are at primary school, as they tend to be less self-conscious when speaking aloud. Children at Ashton Hayes begin speaking French when they are in Reception.
We use a variety of techniques to ensure children enjoy learning French: these include games, role-play, songs (particularly action songs), storytelling and interactive ICT programmes. To bring the language to life we incorporate real objects and events e.g. food, clothes, puppets, toys, celebrations and links to children in French speaking countries. We watch videos and listen to recordings in order to expose the children to more than one voice in French. We make our lessons entertaining and enjoyable in order to develop a positive attitude towards learning a foreign language.
Some school staff have been to France in order to increase their capability in French speaking and learn more about French language and culture. We now have a link school in Garidech in France.