Why is Languages important?

At Tottington Primary School we firmly believe that children develop an interest in learning a Modern Foreign Language (MFL) in an enjoyable and stimulating way that supports an understanding of living in a multi- cultural society, provides an opening to other cultures, fosters children’s curiosity and provides a deeper understanding about the wider world we live in. It can provide a valuable insight to the cultures and societies where Spanish is a predominant language. The skills, knowledge and understanding gained through learning a foreign language make a major contribution to children’s understanding of their own cultures and those of others. Language learning also lies at the heart of ideas about individual identity and community. For this reason, language learning can give children a new perspective on their own language and cultural identity and enable them to be more open and adaptable to new experiences.

What are the aims of our Languages curriculum?

At Tottington Primary School we are passionate about our Spanish curriculum, and providing all pupils with a high quality Spanish education. We believe that learning a language should be fun. The priority is that pupils are keen to participate and make progress in being able to converse using useful sentences to communicate in Spanish. Our aim is to develop the confidence and competence of each child in Spanish and for them to be passionate, curious and confident about their own foreign language learning abilities when they finish the primary school phase of their education.

We will help them develop and demonstrate substantial progress in the 5 key language skills necessary for learning Spanish: Speaking, Listening, Reading, Writing and Grammar.

By the end of KS2 we aim to ensure that pupils of all abilities develop solid foundations in these key language learning skills - properly preparing them for the next stage of their language learning journey. These skills will develop children’s ability to understand what they hear and read and enable them to express themselves in speech and writing. We will extend their knowledge of how language works and explore the similarities and differences between the foreign language they are learning and English. We will also help strengthen their sense of identity through learning about culture in other countries and comparing it with their own. Ultimately, we wish for our pupils to have a love of languages and to become curious and respectful of the world around them.

Through our well-planned and sequenced Spanish curriculum, our children acquire the vital knowledge and skills required for the next stage of their learning journey and for adulthood. These enable the children of Tottington Primary School to become successful, active and positive members of their local community and wider world.