Ripon Cathedral Choir School

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.