‘One language sets you in a corridor for life. Two languages open every door along the way.’
– Frank Smith
French at Handale
At Handale Primary School, we believe that learning a new language should be exciting, inclusive, and accessible to all. Our French curriculum is designed to spark curiosity and build confidence through practical, engaging activities that help break down barriers to success.
We use the Language Angels programme to deliver high-quality French lessons across Key Stage 2. This structured and progressive scheme supports pupils in developing their speaking, listening, reading and writing skills in French, while also building cultural awareness and appreciation for languages beyond their own.
Our approach encourages a ‘can do’ attitude, where children feel confident to take risks, make mistakes, and enjoy the process of learning. Lessons are enriched with games, songs, stories and interactive tasks that make language learning fun and memorable. Teachers carefully select activities that promote vocabulary acquisition and help pupils apply their learning in meaningful contexts.
Learning French at Handale contributes to the development of oracy and literacy, while also enhancing pupils’ understanding of their own culture and the wider world. Early exposure to a foreign language helps children become more adaptable and confident, laying the foundation for future language learning.
Our French curriculum is fully aligned with the National Curriculum and provides clear progression from Year 3 to Year 6. With the support of Language Angels and our passionate teaching team, pupils at Handale are empowered to become enthusiastic and capable language learners.
Long Term Plan
Planning
For each unit of work, we have created an overview of skills, knowledge and vocabulary. Please see the example below.
Sequence of Learning
For each unit of work, we have created a sequence of learning. Please see the example below.
Retrieval Practice at Handale Primary School
At Handale, we understand the importance of retrieval practice in helping children embed knowledge into their long-term memory. Throughout the school day, pupils are given regular opportunities to revisit and recall prior learning, strengthening their understanding and building confidence.
Our day begins with a Knowledge Check, where pupils engage in short, focused questions designed to activate previous learning. This not only prepares them for the day ahead but also reinforces key concepts and vocabulary.
Teachers use skilful questioning techniques to assess understanding, address misconceptions and connect new learning to what pupils already know. Retrieval practice is woven into lessons across the curriculum, helping children retain and apply knowledge over time.
This consistent approach ensures that pupils are not just learning they are remembering, applying and building upon their knowledge in meaningful ways.
