Curriculum Intent for MFL

MFL at its heart is a means of understanding and connecting with others. In our school, learning another language offers a powerful platform for students to explore identity, appreciate cultural diversity, and recognise the shared human experiences that transcend borders. Through MFL, students are invited to question the wider world, reflect on language itself as a tool for communication, and deepen their acceptance of people from all walks of life.

Language learning also provides a structured and developmental opportunity to build confidence in communication. It enables students to engage with routines, phrases, and vocabulary that support their ability to interact meaningfully with others—both in English and in other languages. This process can empower our students to see themselves as capable communicators and valued participants in a global community.

An important and enriching benefit of learning a foreign language is its positive impact on students’ English vocabulary and literacy. By making connections between words in different languages—particularly through the recognition of cognates and word roots—students deepen their understanding of word structures, spelling patterns, and meaning. This supports broader literacy development and strengthens students’ ability to decode and use language expressively in both English and other contexts.

Emphasis in lessons is placed on repetition, routine, and visual supports to aid comprehension and reduce anxiety. Speaking and listening are taught explicitly, with listening recognised as a vital skill for both academic progress and social connection. Every MFL lesson is a safe space where students are encouraged to be brave in trying out new words, supported by adults who know them well.

The MFL curriculum in our school is built on a balance of substantive knowledge—such as vocabulary, pronunciation, and key grammatical structures—and disciplinary knowledge, which focuses on how languages work and how we learn them. Students are taught not only what to say, but how to approach new language, make connections, and develop strategies for communication.

Our curriculum is delivered as a spiral curriculum, where key content and concepts are revisited regularly, each time with greater depth and complexity. This approach supports memory, reinforces learning, and allows for personalised progression that builds on prior knowledge while addressing individual needs.

All students, regardless of their starting point, have access to a broad and rich language curriculum that draws on high-quality cultural and linguistic materials. This may include songs, stories, short films and interactive activities that are chosen not just for accessibility, but for their ability to spark curiosity and enjoyment. Our smaller class sizes allow us to adapt flexibly to individual needs, while still aspiring to the same cultural breadth and global awareness found in mainstream MFL education.

Our approach is focused both on grammar and fluency combined with promoting intercultural understanding and a sense of belonging in the world. Students are exposed to other ways of life, encouraging empathy, openness, and respectful curiosity. Where appropriate, students may work towards formal recognition of their achievements, but the core aim remains one of personal growth, connection, and communication.

MFL offers all students the chance to be seen, to express themselves, and to connect with others across borders. In doing so, it strengthens not only language skills but the emotional and social foundations that help our students thrive beyond the classroom.