Spanish

“To learn another language is to have one more window from which to look at the world.”
Chinese Proverb

Intent

At The Free School Norwich it is our intent that every child will develop a genuine interest and positive curiosity towards foreign languages. We want every child to explore relationships between language and identity, develop a deeper understanding of other cultures and the world around them and grow a better awareness of self, others and cultural differences. We want to harness their enthusiasm for learning, so they feel able and willing to continue studying languages beyond KS2, working towards becoming life-long language learners, as well as open-minded global citizens.

At The Free School Norwich, we integrate Language Angels with diverse cultural activities to deliver a dynamic foreign languages curriculum for Key Stage 2. The four key language learning skills; listening, speaking, reading and writing are taught and all necessary grammar covered in an age-appropriate way. This enables our pupils to use and apply their learning in a variety of contexts, laying down solid foundations for future language learning. Spanish is our chosen language, supported by Spanish-speaking teachers and its popularity in local secondary schools.

Implementation

Language skills are acquired through weekly 1-hour lessons, led by our Spanish specialist teacher. Children progressively accumulate vocabulary, language skills, and grammatical knowledge through age-appropriate, cross-curricular topics, fostering fluency and authenticity.

Units are designed for progression, with subsequent lessons building on previous ones. Pupils develop complexity in their language use, akin to constructing ‘language Lego’ over a 6-week unit. Assessment of pupil learning occurs at the end of each unit, evaluating speaking, listening, reading, and writing skills. This ensures continuous tracking of progress and attainment, with pupils encouraged to self-assess.

Alongside Language Angels lessons, our pupils participate in language and cultural enhancement activities like Spanish Fiesta Lessons, assemblies, and Spanish Cafés. These experiences enrich language learning and provide real-world applications for newly acquired skills. Spanish is integrated into daily school life, with all students engaging in activities such as a daily language register and greeting teachers in the target language.

Impact

Each subsequent lesson within a unit progresses, ensuring continuous challenge and learning. Units advance in linguistic complexity from Early Learning to Intermediate and Progressive levels, with pupils continuously building on previous knowledge. Previous language is recycled to reinforce long-term memory retention.

Pupils track their learning and progression through pupil-friendly overviews at the end of each unit. They can articulate their achievements and maintain records of their learning and core vocabulary. These end of unit assessments also enable targeted teaching and feedback to stakeholders. Data is easily accessed and analysed using the Tracking and Progression Tool, facilitating early interventions if needed.  All the above will ensure that the children at The Free School Norwich are given an excellent start in their language learning journey, building blocks towards becoming life-long language learners and burgeoning global citizens.

Support

How can you support your Language Learner?

All KS2 children will have access to the Language Angels Learning App, offering them interactive games and educational songs. Furthermore, showing curiosity for the new language your child is learning in school, encouraging them to share what they’ve learned, and delving into cultural customs and language through personal research can greatly reinforce the importance of language learning and foster a genuine passion for it in your child.

Curriculum Progression

Your child will learn…