French

Starting in year 2, French is taught exclusively by a fully qualified, specialist teacher in a designated classroom.

From an early age great emphasis is placed on communication and the children become familiar with the basic structure of the language through songs, games and lively activities. The pupils are actively involved in different tasks mainly based on speaking and listening skills in order to build up their oral confidence.

As the children progress through the school reading and writing are introduced as well as more complex grammatical aspects of the language.

Given that I am a native French speaker I believe it is vitally important to help the children develop an authentic French accent, an awareness of another culture and a positive attitude towards the subject right from the start.

In keeping with the school ethos we actively promote effective learning experiences both inside and outside the classroom. Perhaps the best example of this is our year 6 residential trip to Normandy in the summer term. This week long trip not only provides the perfect opportunity for pupils to practise their French in an authentic context but also offers strong cross curricular links with other departments within the school. Whether it be visiting the battlefields from WW2 or introducing the children to adventurous activities, which they undertake in earnest in years 7 and 8, the trip benefits the pupils both academically and socially and always features as one of the highlights of the students’ time at Daneshill.

After year 6 the 13+ French curriculum prepares students for Common Entrance examinations and more able pupils are entered for Scholarships in French.