Our aim in the French department is to give all pupils, regardless of ability, the desire to speak and enjoy a foreign language. Pupils start learning French from Year 5 using a range of resource materials. The main course book used is ‘Equipe’ which offers a wide array of activities in all the key skills required to learn a language.

In the early years, emphasis is placed on the oral and aural aspects of the subject with the main focus being enjoyment through a variety of learning strategies. As pupils move into Years 7 and 8, they are encouraged to develop their written skills as well as maintaining high standards of oral work.

Pupils are given the opportunity to learn through a wide range of mediums including, role-play, paired and group activities and ICT, in particular, through the use of the Interactive Whiteboard. Pupils have access to some excellent software programmes and educational websites, some of which are also available to use at home.

In Year 6 the pupils have the opportunity to experience French culture at first hand during a residential visit to Normandy, which is thoroughly enjoyed by both staff and pupils.

Curriculum Overview
Autumn Term	Spring Term	Summer Term
Year 5
In Town Directions Days of the Week Time of Day	Sports Months of the Year Food & Drink Opinions	Weather & Seasons Where I Live
Year 6
Classroom Routines School Subjects Telling the time Opinions	At Home The Body Clothes	Going on Holiday Pastimes Personal Descriptions
Year 7
Pastimes and Hobbies In Town / Directions Past Tense	Clothes & Fashion Weather	Food & Drink Money
Year 8
Transport / Holidays Daily Routine Opinions & Justification Past and Future Tense	House Chores Pocket Money	TV & Cinema Health & Illness

This curriculum overview shows when new topics are introduced. Previous topics are revised within new topic.