MFL Intent

At Bottesford, we are linguists!

At Bottesford Schools Federation, we believe that learning a foreign language provides valuable educational, social and cultural experiences for our pupils. We want all children to experience language learning that is positive, inclusive, engaging and motivating.

Learning another language develops pupils' communication skills across speaking, listening, reading and writing, whilst building confidence and an understanding of how languages work. It also gives children a new perspective on the world, helping them to appreciate different cultures, traditions and ways of life.

Through learning French, pupils develop an understanding that languages connect people across countries and cultures. We aim to develop curiosity, global citizenship and respect for different perspectives, whilst giving children the confidence to communicate beyond their own community.

Our MFL curriculum supports our vision to “We RISE together”. Pupils demonstrate Respect for other languages, cultures and perspectives; Integrity by listening carefully and communicating thoughtfully; Strive by practising and improving their language skills; and Empowered by using French confidently and independently.

Ultimately, we want pupils to become enthusiastic and successful language learners who recognise the opportunities that learning another language can provide for communication, travel, education and their future.

A Bottesford Federation Linguist will:

• Show Respect for different languages, cultures, traditions and perspectives.
• Develop confidence in communicating through speaking, listening, reading and writing.
• Strive to improve their pronunciation, vocabulary, grammar and accuracy through regular practice.
• Demonstrate Integrity by listening carefully, responding appropriately and contributing positively.
• Be Empowered to use French independently in familiar situations and communicate with increasing confidence.
• Develop a growing vocabulary and understanding of key grammatical structures.
• Recognise similarities and differences between French and English and understand how languages work.
• Develop curiosity about France, French-speaking countries and the wider world.
• Appreciate the value of language learning and recognise the opportunities it can provide in their future.

Our MFL Curriculum

The language taught at Bottesford Schools Federation is French, in line with the National Curriculum for Modern Foreign Languages. We follow Language Angels, supplemented with additional resources where appropriate, to provide a structured and progressive curriculum.

Pupils develop the four key language skills of listening, speaking, reading and writing, alongside vocabulary, grammar, translation and cultural understanding.

Learning is carefully sequenced so that vocabulary, grammar and communication skills are revisited, practised and embedded over time. Retrieval practice supports pupils in securing their learning and developing increasingly independent language skills.

Pupils use French in meaningful contexts, including conversations, games, songs, stories, written activities and presentations. They are encouraged to take risks, learn from mistakes and develop confidence in making themselves understood.

Cultural learning is an important part of our curriculum. Pupils explore life in France and other French-speaking countries, developing an appreciation of different cultures, traditions and perspectives and making comparisons with their own experiences.

Through carefully planned progression across Key Stage 2, pupils build the knowledge, vocabulary and skills needed to communicate effectively and develop a lifelong curiosity about languages and the wider world.