Subject Information - Modern Foreign Languages

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At Padgate Academy, the MFL Department endeavours to provide all pupils with an exciting journey of discovery of foreign culture and language.  We aim to inspire pupils via a knowledge-deep curriculum which develops their confidence and competence when using the language helping them to become resilient linguists, who are able to communicate clearly and accurately, with flair, in the Target Language. 

High quality teaching and lessons ensure pupils’ development of skills in phonics, speaking, listening, reading, and writing in the Target Language. The learning pathway guides the embedment of key grammatical and linguistic structures and vocabulary through a sequenced programme of lessons using the most up to date and contemporary teaching methods, research and ideas. This increases pupil engagement and allows all pupils the opportunity to achieve their individual potential in the language, and to develop a natural inquisitiveness and curiosity.  

Cultural awareness and immersion are a key part of the Padgate Academy Languages programme both inside and outside the classroom. Pupils are given the opportunity to both participate in and also further explore and deepen their knowledge of key events, festivals and celebrations which take place in both the Francophone and Hispanic world.  This helps to create outward thinking global citizens.

We also offer opportunities for our students to work with academic institutions such as Oxford University, for example the recent ‘Oxplore Day Experience’ for our Year 8 students in addition to many newly devised opportunities such as representing the school as a Language Leader, and taking part in frequent competitions such as the ‘Padgate Polyglots’ competition which will run later this year.

An understanding and appreciation of foreign languages is fundamental to our teaching and ethos within the department. Communication, understanding and being understood is at the core of everyday life.