Modern Foreign Languages
St Francis CE Modern Foreign Language Policy
MFL Leader: Miss Nicholson
Why do languages matter?
At St Francis Primary School we believe that learning a foreign language provides a valuable educational, social and cultural experience in preparation for future life. It is important that children are aware of the world that they live in and are able to communicate effectively with those around them. Learning another language gives children a new perspective on the world, encouraging them to understand their own cultures, respect and appreciate those of others and understand the importance of language in their future.
“As Britain leaves the European Union, it’s more important than ever to show how much we value international opportunities, language-learning, and ensuring our young people have a global outlook.” Damian Hinds, Secretary of State World Education Forum March February 2019.
How Italian is taught at St Francis.
We work in partnership with the Italian Consulate, where Ms Capello, an Italian teacher, joins us each Friday and delivers engaging lessons from EYFS to Y6. This provides the children with the opportunity to practise speaking, writing and reading in another language, whilst being taught by a native Italian. The children participate in fun and exciting songs, games and activities to develop their language vocabulary. Such activities are designed to develop their love of learning about Italian and other languages and create a curiosity about other cultures around the world.
Pen Pals with the children at Calamandrei School, Tuscany.
Puffins class are extremely excited about having pen pals with the children from Calamandrei school in Tuscany! They have enjoyed receiving pictures and messages from the children at our partnership school, Calamandrei, and have been working hard to send some of their own drawings and messages back to the children in Italy. They will also create video messages asking the children at Calamandrei questions, in Italian. Have a look at Calamandrei School in more detail using the link below.
Here is the website of our partnership school in Tuscany:
https://www.comprensivo1poggibonsi.edu.it/index.php
Future goals for MFL at St Francis.
For the future, we hope to develop experiences by hosting an “Around the World Day”, enjoyed by children, staff, parents and governors. The day will be filled with awe and wonder where, together, we are able to learn about difference and diversity, whilst at the same time, children will be encouraged to share experiences of their own diverse backgrounds and travels.
