“Learning another language is not only learning different words for the same things, but learning another way to think about things.” – Flora Lewis
At Alvechurch Middle School, we view language learning as an essential part of our students’ educational journey, offering far more than just an opportunity to speak or write in another language. It is about equipping students with the cognitive tools to think critically, solve problems, and understand the world from a more holistic perspective. By learning a second language, students not only enhance their ability to communicate but also develop crucial cognitive, social, and emotional skills that support their overall growth. The process of learning a language also fosters cultural awareness, as students explore diverse traditions, practices, and values. This exposure nurtures empathy, tolerance, and respect for cultural differences, vital qualities in our interconnected, globalized world.
Beyond academic and cultural growth, language learning plays a key role in social and emotional development. Students gain confidence as they express themselves in a new language, leading to a sense of achievement and autonomy. This empowerment is particularly important for students from diverse linguistic backgrounds, as it fosters a sense of belonging and validates their individual experiences within the school community.
Ultimately, language learning at Alvechurch Middle School helps students become global citizens—equipped not only with communication skills but with the ability to engage with and appreciate a wide range of cultures and perspectives. This foundation will serve them throughout their academic careers and into their future professional lives, making language an invaluable part of their education and personal development.
What is distinctive about French at Alvechurch C of E Middle School:
The curriculum is designed to be challenging yet appropriate to each pupil’s stage of development, laying strong foundations for future language learning
The curriculum builds progressively over the four years of Middle School, reinforcing and expanding upon previously taught skills and knowledge
Opportunities for repetition are embedded to strengthen retention and recall, enabling pupils to integrate new knowledge effectively
The curriculum extends beyond language skills to support personal development, including: Communication development through role-plays, presentations, and language games.
ICT integration, allowing pupils to reinforce learning and create their own digital content.
Assessment is embedded throughout the curriculum to support learning and track progress. Teachers use a range of formative and summative methods, including: Marking, self- and peer-assessment, targeted questioning, and summative progress checks
High standards of accuracy and progression are promoted across all skill areas to prepare pupils for further study and confident communication
Through language learning, pupils build resilience, determination, and a sense of global citizenship, fostering respect and cultural awareness
The Curriculum Journey for every pupil in French looks like this:
How can you support your child in French?
Make It Fun with Games & Apps
Use language-learning apps like Sentence Builders, Duolingo, Linguascope, or BBC Bitesize to reinforce vocabulary in a fun, engaging way. Board games like “Snap” with French words or online quizzes like kahoot and quizlet can also help.
Practice Little and Often
Encourage your child to use French daily, even if it’s just a few words. Simple things like greeting each other in French (“Bonjour!”), naming objects around the house, or having a “French Word of the Day” can make a big difference.
Watch & Listen to French Media
Watching French cartoons (e.g., Petit Ours Brun, Mouk Trotro), listening to French songs, or tuning into audiobooks can improve their listening skills and pronunciation without feeling like a lesson.
Label Everyday Items
Stick post-it notes with French words around the house (e.g., “le frigo” for the fridge, “la porte” for the door). Seeing the words regularly will reinforce vocabulary in a natural way.
Encourage Speaking Without Fear
Praise their efforts and avoid correcting every mistake—fluency comes with confidence! Try simple conversations like asking what they’d like for dinner in French or letting them teach you what they’ve learned in school.