About the School
Modern Foreign Languages Pilot Specialism
Since September, 2007 Clinton Primary School has been part of a DCSF pilot with other Kenilworth primary schools developing a specialism in modern foreign languages.
Progress so far
We held a languages evening for parents in December to share with them the national picture in language learning, the implications of the specialist pilot and the progress we have made in teaching foreign languages and developing cultural awareness at Clinton. Parents were also given a presentation on the Head’s visit to China. As a result of the meeting, two parents expressed an interest in attending Mandarin classes. Additionally, one Danish parent is keen to start an after school inter-culture club, where, with the support of parents who come from other cultures, children will experience a little of those countries represented in our community.
French
Children in years 5 and 6 have been taught French on a weekly basis for several years, culminating in a visit to Normandy. From September, it will be taught each day, by the class teacher, supported by a weekly lesson from a specialist teacher.
Since September, year 4 children have been learning French. From the spring term, they will have additional conversation classes in small groups, with a French speaking parent.
Year 3 children have learnt aspects of Dutch culture and language, related to a context for learning. From September, French will be taught each day by the class teachers.
Staff are about to embark upon planning for the teaching of French, using the Framework for MFL.
Mandarin
The school has a formal link with Li Yuan Foreign Language Primary School in Shenzhen. Children in years 2 and 5 have written letters and sent pictures. They are now eagerly awaiting penpals!
Children in KS1 and the Foundation Stage have now begun to learn Mandarin. We have been very lucky to find a parent who has Mandarin at degree level and she is now employed to teach two sessions of Mandarin to each class. Lessons are being videoed and are used to reinforce learning.
As part of the professional development programme, Warwick University is providing a teacher of Mandarin to teach Mandarin to staff once a week during a twilight session so they can keep up with the children! Our challenge will be in furthering their learning of Mandarin beyond Key Stage 1.
Using Contexts for Learning as an opportunity for language and cultural awareness.
We have begun to teach a skills- based curriculum using the medium of relevant and exciting ‘contexts for learning’. We are experimenting with this way of delivering the curriculum and are using the opportunities provided with links made with the school in Shenzhen earlier this year. Lessons are also being planned which link to Francophone countries to maximise exposure to the French language for children in KS2.
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