Pupils at Aldwickbury begin learning French in Year 1, and they continue to develop their skills in the language through to Year 8. In their final year, they have the opportunity to study either German or Spanish alongside French, allowing them to broaden their linguistic skills and make informed decisions for future study.
From the outset, our aim is to make language learning engaging and enjoyable. We believe that enthusiasm leads to success, so our lessons are varied and dynamic, using a wide range of teaching methods to build confidence and curiosity. Pupils develop their listening, speaking, reading and writing skills while gaining a strong awareness of the culture behind the languages they learn.
The curriculum is enriched through role-play, digital tools, literature and real-world experiences, including a Year 7 trip to Paris that brings the language and culture of France to life.
MFL Curriculum Overview
The overview below provides a glimpse into our modern foreign languages curriculum at Aldwickbury, showing part of the rich and varied curriculum that pupils enjoy.
- Pupils are introduced to French in Year 1 with a focus on speaking and listening. They learn basic conversational phrases and talk about themselves
- In Year 2, they move on to topic-based modules such as food, clothes and school. Reading and writing are gradually introduced using key words and phrases
- A stronger focus on reading and writing using scaffolded activities
- Vocabulary games and semi-scripted role plays build fluency
- New topics include numbers, colours, pets, zoo animals and classroom items
- Pupils learn about life in France, including landmarks and Christmas traditions
- Pupils begin constructing full sentences and learning grammar including regular present tense verbs
- Weekly vocabulary tests reinforce learning
- Continued development of all four skills
- Taster sessions in Spanish and German are introduced
- Year 7 begins with a five-day trip to Paris focused on speaking and cultural immersion.
- Pupils build on their French grammar and vocabulary, covering the present and perfect tenses
- At the end of Year 7, they choose between Spanish or German in addition to continuing French
- Year 8 pupils develop fluency in two languages. Some may sit GCSE French Foundation papers
- Lessons remain focused on communication, cultural understanding and independent learning
Igniting a Lifelong Passion for Languages
By offering a broad and engaging modern foreign languages curriculum, we aim to develop confident, culturally aware pupils who can communicate effectively in more than one language. Whether continuing with French or branching into German or Spanish, pupils leave Aldwickbury with valuable language skills and a global perspective that will support their future learning and enrich their lives beyond the classroom.
Make an Enquiry
To find out more about Aldwickbury School, please fill in our enquiry form. Our Admissions Team will be in touch, answer your questions and guide you through the admissions process.
