Modern Foreign Languages partnerships

A member of the Modern Foreign Language department taught a three-week programme to the pupils in year 3 at Longford Park. This comprised basic conversation starters and key questions about names and ages. 

We also hold annual plays and invite local schools to attend alongside our students. This year, we have four plays taking place in November, December, March and June (one for Spanish, two for French and one for German). They are attracting up to 200 visitors per play. The first three plays are for KS3/4 students and so will be attended by secondary schools. The June play is for KS2/3 and so will be attended by primary schools.

Aims

The aim was for the year 3 pupils to have French lessons with a qualified French specialist. The students were the immediate beneficiaries, but it was also beneficial for the Year 3 teachers to see the teaching strategies and websites used. 

The aim of holding the Modern Foreign Language plays is to enable our students and those from local schools to develop their confidence and listening skills in their languages by seeing a 50 minute play, written especially for the target audience. The plays include lots of topics and vocab relevant to the GCSE/ relevant key stage. The project also aims to promote motivation and enjoyment of languages.

Background

The head of William Morris (our partner school) contacted us and asked if we could help. Longford Park and William Morris are in the same MAT. 

The Head of MFL came up with the idea of hosting the plays, which we wanted to share with local schools. 

Resources

Teaching websites we are subscribed to at Tudor. 

The Hall, refreshments in the dining room afterwards and of course the performers!

Impact

The intended impact is that the students gain in confidence in spoken French and that their teacher learns strategies for effective teaching of languages. 

Closer relationships with local secondary schools, our students get to see other students who learn languages.

Pupil Involvement

Year 3. Twenty-five boys and girls were involved in the online French lessons. 

First 3 plays - students 13-16, up to 200 per play; June play - 10/11 year olds - 120 pupils. These numbers vary depending on the event.