How can we inspire children to communicate confidently in another language and develop an understanding of the wider world?

At Witham Oaks Academy, we deliver a rich and carefully sequenced French curriculum that builds confidence, curiosity and cultural awareness. We want children to enjoy learning a new language and feel empowered to use it in real-life situations. Alongside developing practical communication skills, our curriculum broadens pupils’ understanding of different cultures and traditions, helping them to see themselves as global citizens.

Children learn French through a combination of specialist teaching and a structured programme that supports all teachers to deliver high-quality lessons. Learning is progressive, beginning with speaking and listening in Year 3 before developing reading and writing skills as pupils move through Key Stage 2. French is not taught in isolation; it is used as a tool to strengthen understanding of language more broadly, including links to English grammar, vocabulary and communication.

Our curriculum:

• Develops pupils’ confidence in speaking, listening, reading and writing in French.
• Encourages practical communication through real-life contexts, such as conversations and role-play.
• Builds understanding of grammar and language patterns to support deeper learning.
• Promotes ‘language detective’ skills, helping pupils to decode unfamiliar words and make links between languages.
• Provides insight into French culture, traditions and ways of life.
• Uses engaging approaches such as songs, games and collaborative activities to support learning.
• Follows a progressive, spiral structure, revisiting and building on knowledge over time.
• Prepares pupils with the skills and confidence to continue language learning at Key Stage 3.