French

The study of a modern foreign language can be an exciting and stimulating activity at any age, but particularly so for the young. At Mowden Hall School, all pupils start learning French at the age of three (Nursery). Most language-teaching takes place in a designated set of classrooms equipped with audio-visual facilities. Extensive I.C.T. facilities are also available nearby. We aim to harness young children's natural curiosity, spontaneity and desire to communicate. By means of lively but structured teaching, we seek to:

1. Help them to acquire a wide range of useful vocabulary, and develop their ability to use it for practical oral communication in the foreign language.
2. Give them a clear understanding of the grammar, so that they can establish a sound base for further study of the language as an academic discipline involving reading and writing as well.
3. Give them insights into the culture of the country or countries where the language is spoken, thereby encouraging positive and tolerant attitudes towards habits and lifestyles which might differ somewhat from their own.
4. Develop an awareness of the nature of language-learning generally, and of the skills required to tackle another modern language successfully.

At Mowden Hall School, we are fully committed to the study of French: all our Year 7 pupils spend one term in South-West France, near Toulouse, where they learn not only the French language but also the culture and civilisation of France.