To learn a language is to have one more window from which to look at the world – Chinese proverb

French at st thomas'

A number of our pupils already speak languages other than English, and their skills, their culture and the diversity within our school family, is celebrated.  In part because of our rich, diverse school family, our pupils recognise that people of different nationalities and cultures communicate in languages other than English, both across the world and within our own school and community.  

The intent behind teaching French at St. Thomas' is to develop pupils' communication skills, cultural awareness, and enthusiasm for learning languages. The school emphasises progression, ensuring that each year builds on previous knowledge. This systematic approach helps students to know more, remember more, and do more as they move through the primary years​.

At St Thomas' our Key Stage Two children start to learn French and our curriculum is underpinned by the planning and resources from the Kapow scheme of work.  The programme is immersive and includes interactive and engaging activities designed to build and embed skills in French, so that our children will learn, remember and be able to use French as they progress through our school.  Our children learn through songs, games, and practical exercises that cover topics such as greetings, numbers, colours, classroom language and personal information.  The programme also includes lessons about French culture and aspects of life in France.  

Our children build their knowledge in the key language skills using French - in  listening, speaking, reading and writing. All these aspects are taught explicitly and there are  many opportunities planned to revisit and build on prior knowledge, and to practise and refine their skills. These all help to develop the knowledge and the foundations  in language learning which they will require to transition to languages at Key Stage Three.