Ripon Cathedral Choir School

The learning of a foreign language in primary school provides a valuable educational, social and cultural experience for all pupils. Pupils develop communication and literacy skills that lay the foundation for future language learning. They develop linguistic competence, extend their knowledge of how language works and explore differences and similarities between the foreign language and English. Learning another language raises awareness of the multilingual and multicultural world and introduces an international dimension to pupils' learning, giving them an insight into their own culture and those of others. The learning of a foreign language provides a medium for cross-curricular links and for the reinforcement of knowledge, skills and understanding developed in other subjects.

Philosophy:

French, as well as being the native language of one of our nearest European neighbours, is widely spoken on five continents and in 33 countries. Approximately 200 million people in the world use French as their first or second language. In our modern, cosmopolitan life it is useful to be able to communicate in more than one language.

Year 5 pupils enjoying the french picnic

French plays an integral part in the curriculum at Ripon Cathedral Choir School and our pupils benefit from subject specialist teaching right from Foundation through to Year 8. This early exposure to a foreign language facilitates language learning and develops new connections in the brain which enhance learning in many other areas. Language learning, as well as being fun, incorporates many different teaching and learning styles which help to cultivate confidence and independence in our pupils.

At the Choir School we aim:

• To develop a positive attitude to language learning and to foster a love of French.

• To build up the necessary vocabulary, grammatical knowledge and skills needed to understand and respond to French at appropriate levels.

• To provide a sound basis for continuing language study at 11+, 13+ and beyond.

• To develop a range of skills including dictionary use, ICT and learning strategies.

• To provide opportunities to work systematically, creatively and independently.

• To broaden knowledge of the World through awareness of life and culture in France and other French speaking countries.

• To maximise each child’s potential by using a wide variety of teaching techniques in a purposeful and enjoyable learning environment.

Year 6 taking part in the French Fashion Show

French at the Choir School goes beyond the guidelines outlined in the QCA Scheme of Work for Key Stage 2. Our students are well equiped for French classes in school post11 and many achieve excellent results in Common Entrance examinations for Senior Schools at 13+.

Role play in Spanish Club

 Language learning is enchanced through song, games and rhymes. Grammatical and phonetic rules are gradually introduced along with language topics. French lesson contain activities which are fun and active, where our children can explore language creatively.