Languages
The MFL Department (Spanish and French)
We are a lively department where student engagement is at the core.
At our school, we believe that learning a foreign language is an essential part of a well-rounded education. It equips students with practical communication skills, broadens their understanding of the world, and builds cultural awareness and confidence. Through studying either French or Spanish, pupils develop valuable skills that support literacy, memory, and critical thinking, preparing them for future opportunities in education, travel, and work.
Our MFL curriculum is carefully structured to promote deep thinking and active engagement. Each lesson follows a clear sequence, beginning with teacher-led input and guided practice, and gradually moving towards independent application. We use ActiveLearn, a high-quality digital platform, to support interactive and personalised learning. Phonics is embedded throughout our teaching to help students develop accurate pronunciation and strong listening skills.
We enrich learning with authentic stories, cultural references, and well-known personalities from French- and Spanish-speaking countries, helping students make meaningful connections with the language. All learners are supported through effective scaffolding, and we provide appropriate challenge to ensure every pupil is stretched and motivated. Our approach is inclusive, engaging, and designed to build confidence and enjoyment in language learning.
Key Stage 3
Throughout Key Stage 3, students build a strong foundation in both language skills and grammar. They develop their ability to understand and produce spoken and written language with increasing accuracy and confidence. Across Years 7 to 9, students gradually move from using simple sentences to expressing more complex ideas, supported by a growing understanding of how the language works. Grammar is introduced in a clear and progressive way, helping students to recognise patterns, use a range of tenses, and apply key structures to communicate effectively. By the end of Year 9, students are able to understand and create longer texts, express opinions with justification, and use a variety of vocabulary and grammatical structures with increasing independence.
Key Stage 4
At Key Stage 4, students continue their study of either French or Spanish by following the AQA GCSE specification. The course builds on the skills developed at Key Stage 3, with a focus on confident and accurate communication in both spoken and written language. Students explore a range of engaging and relevant topics across three new themes: People and Lifestyle, Popular Culture, and Communication and the World Around Us. These include areas such as identity and relationships, healthy living, free time activities, festivals, celebrity culture, travel, media, and the environment. Grammar and vocabulary are taught progressively to support more complex language use, and students are encouraged to express opinions, narrate events, and interact in real-life scenarios. Lessons are structured to support all learners through scaffolding and modelling, while also providing challenge to stretch higher-level thinking and language use. Regular practice in listening, speaking, reading, and writing ensures students are well-prepared for the four equally weighted GCSE exams.
Key Stage 5
French and Spanish are highly regarded facilitating subjects that are valued by top universities and competitive degree courses. At A-Level, students refine their language skills while exploring rich cultural, social, and political themes. In French, students study La Haine and L’Étranger, while in Spanish they explore La Casa de Bernarda Alba and María, llena eres de gracia. These works encourage critical thinking, analysis, and discussion in the target language. Students also complete an independent research project, developing skills in inquiry and presentation. Studying a language at this level not only enhances communication and cultural awareness but also helps students stand out in university and career applications.
Curriculum Map - French
Enrichment Opportunities
Over the years, we’ve offered students unforgettable experiences through trips to European cities including Amsterdam, Athens, Málaga, Valencia, Lisbon, and most recently, France in July 2024. During this visit, which took place in the year of the Paris Olympic Games, students had the unique opportunity to witness the Olympic flame as it passed through the town of Avallon. These trips allow pupils to experience local customs, hear the language in authentic settings, and enjoy traditional cuisine, making language learning meaningful and memorable.
Our enrichment programme also includes a Spanish Cine Club for KS3 students and student-led events such as the Latin Fiesta, which raised funds for the mental health charity Mind. To celebrate the diversity of our school community, we have also created an MFL Cookbook featuring recipes that reflect the cultural heritage of our students.
Athens 2018
Valencia 2019
For further information please contact us via email - schooladmin@bishopdouglass.barnet.sch.uk