Russell Hall Primary School aims to equip children with the skills to be able to learn new languages through a relevant, broad and ambitious curriculum that will inspire and excite our pupils. The intent is that all pupils will develop a genuine interest and positive curiosity about foreign languages, finding them enjoyable and stimulating. Learning a second language will also offer our pupils the opportunity to explore relationships between language and identity, develop a deeper understanding of other cultures and the world around them with a better awareness of self, others and cultural differences.
At Russell Hall, our focus language is French. Children from Year 3 to Year 6 will be taught a variety of topics and themes through the Language Angels scheme of work, which is updated and reviewed annually to ensure a dynamic programme that is outlined in long term and short-term planning. All pupils will be expected to achieve their full potential by encouraging high expectations and excellent standards in their foreign language learning – the ultimate aim being that pupils will feel willing and able to continue studying languages beyond key stage 2. The four key language learning skills; listening, speaking, reading and writing will be taught and all necessary grammar will be covered in an age-appropriate way across the primary phase. We begin by teaching these key skills right from the start of a child’s education at Russell Hall, in the early years, so that they can transfer their skills across when it comes to beginning their French journey in Year 3. We enrich our French curriculum through a French Day during the Summer term where we celebrate all the wonderful work that has gone on in school.