Modern Foreign Languages

A team of specialist teachers aims to deliver a broad and balanced curriculum that provides opportunities for everyone to succeed.

From Nursery, all children at Orwell Park School have the opportunity to learn French. The curriculum develops in line with their age and ability, so that by Year 8 they are ready to take French at Common Entrance level.

All four skills of listening, speaking, reading and writing are covered in small teaching groups, using a range of resources and teaching methodology.  The focus is always on pupil engagement through active learning.

Grammar is seen as a crucial part of teaching and learning, and children are encouraged to develop their skills in producing accurate French in a range of contexts.  In addition, there is access to a wealth of on-line resources via iPad and Mac to assist in acquiring new language.

In Year 7, all children take part in a fun-filled week in a French château. Each activity involves communication in French as trained staff guide them through shopping trips, pancake making and thrilling outdoor challenges in the Normandy countryside, making for a truly memorable experience that actually improves their French!

Above all, learning a foreign language gives children the opportunity to develop their skills far beyond the classroom: independent inquiry, problem solving, teamwork, academic resilience, communication strategies and developing a lifelong affinity with all things French are just some of the outcomes we aim for in MFL.