At All Saints we believe that the learning of a foreign language provides a valuable educational, social and cultural experience for our pupils.  It helps them to develop communication skills including key skills of speaking and listening and extends their knowledge of how language works.  Learning another language gives children a new perspective on the world, encouraging them to understand what it is to be a global citizen.  This includes the importance of tolerance and understanding, which is crucial knowledge in today’s world.  The focus language taught in our school is French; by focussing on just one language we allow for more progress to be made, and hence build a stronger foundation for secondary school study.  French is one of the languages taught at Cockermouth School.

We aim to engender confidence and a positive attitude towards learning a language, which we hope will last into KS3 and beyond.  French is taught regularly to ensure progression and skills development.  Children in KS2 are taught specific skills, concepts and vocabulary in a weekly-dedicated French lesson with a specialist Language teacher.  The class teacher reinforces the content of these sessions during the week.  Each topic covered is inspired by a French story, song or poem.

The children are taught how to:

· ask and answer questions

· use correct pronunciation and grammar

· memorise words

· interpret meaning

· understand basic grammar

· use dictionaries

· work in pairs and groups and communicate in French

In French lessons we also look at life in another culture, including learning about how festivals are celebrated in France, as well as learning about the geography of France.

At All Saints’ we foster a problem-solving approach, giving children opportunities to work out language use for themselves in a supportive context where risk-taking and creativity are encouraged, and there is an emphasis on having fun with the new language.  All children in Key Stage 2, including those with SEND, have equal access to French lessons.  Our French club for our Year 2 children is extremely popular.