Modern Foreign Languages

MFL at Harris

At Harris Primary School, our aim is for every child to receive quality foundations in a modern foreign language in order to provide an opening to other cultures

We want pupils to develop curiosity and a deeper understanding of the world through the speaking, listening and writing of a foreign language and have fun with learning a new language 

At Harris, we want to provide an opening for other cultures and one of those ways is through teaching the foundations of a modern foreign language. We aim to do this by fostering curiosity to deepen their understanding of the world. Our lesson offer opportunities to express their ideas and thoughts in another language and to understand and respond to its speakers, both in speech and in writing. The topics we have chosen ensure that there is a practical purpose to learning the language as well as providing foundations that support and enthuse them into other language acquisition in the future should they choose to do so.

How we do this

While studying a modern foreign language in Key Stage One is not a statutory requirement, we believe that children love to be able to speak some words in another language. Therefore, we teach children some basics such as greetings, numbers and colours. We use formal teaching but also include this within our daily life in school. This also support their learning in Key Stage Two.

In Key Stage Two we have a sequence of learning that building on prior knowledge. Child are given opportunities to learn through speak, listening and written work.

We use a programme called Language Angles and have selected units that we feel will give children the most practical purpose.

What topics we teach

What language do we teach?

Historically Harris has taught French and for all children in Key Stage Two in 2025/26 they will continue their French learning journey.

The children who are in Key Stage One in 2025/26 will begin learning Spanish and will move through the school learning Spanish rather than French.

Oracy

The integral part of learning a MFL is speaking and listening so this in embedded into all lessons.  

Assessment and feedback

The units we teach have been planned to ensure that children have the foundations required before moving on. We also have systems in place so that teachers know what vocabulary children should have and they have the tools to be able to recap any learning as required. This formative assessment is the main way in which we assess children and adapt teaching or intervene accordingly.