Overview
At Bridge Street, we believe that learning a language is far more than acquiring vocabulary; it is about building confidence, resilience, and curiosity in our pupils. For many of our children, language learning provides a safe and structured way to explore identity, culture, and communication. French is our chosen Modern Foreign Language (MFL), and through it we aim to nurture self-expression, celebrate diversity, and give pupils a sense of achievement that extends beyond the classroom.
Intent
It is our intent at Bridge Street to provide all pupils with a high-quality and accessible education in Modern Foreign Languages, with French as our main focus. We want language learning to be a positive and confidence-building experience that supports pupils’ social and emotional development, encouraging resilience, teamwork, and self-esteem. By learning French, pupils gain opportunities to explore new cultures and perspectives, helping them to develop respect for difference and a deeper understanding of the world around them. We also celebrate the languages spoken within our community, such as Polish, Chinese and Sign Language, so that pupils see their own linguistic identities valued and recognised. Ultimately, our aim is for pupils to feel proud of their achievements in French, to enjoy the process of learning, and to carry forward a curiosity about languages into their future.
Implementation
French is taught through the “Language Angels” scheme, which is carefully adapted to meet the needs of our pupils. Lessons are short, structured and interactive, with a strong emphasis on speaking and listening to build confidence and engagement. Teachers differentiate planning and resources to ensure accessibility for all learners, using visuals, repetition and practical activities to support understanding. Weekly lessons focus on recapping prior learning and celebrating small steps of progress. Performance and creativity are central to our approach, with pupils engaging in songs, role play, rhymes and drama, giving them opportunities to express themselves and build confidence in front of an audience. Technology also plays a role, with pupils using tablets and apps such as Flash Academy to practise vocabulary interactively.
Impact
Our MFL curriculum ensures that pupils develop key language skills in line with the national curriculum, while also strengthening their confidence, resilience and social skills. Language learning contributes to pupils’ emotional wellbeing by giving them opportunities to succeed, perform and share their achievements with peers and families. Assessment is ongoing and flexible, recognising progress not only in communication, participation and confidence but also in traditional language skills. Pupils leave Bridge Street with a greater awareness of themselves and others, an appreciation of cultural diversity, and a sense of pride in their ability to learn and use another language. Ultimately, our MFL curriculum helps pupils to see that language is a bridge, connecting them to new cultures, new opportunities and a broader perspective on the world.
Contact us
If you require more information about Languages and the curriculum we teach at Bridge Street, please contact:
Amy Rouse – KS1/2 Curriculum Lead.
