Language learning enables young people to express their ideas and thoughts in another language, and to understand and respond to its speakers. It is a critical element of a curriculum aimed at creating well-rounded citizens who display ‘global competence’. Not only does it broaden their communication skills and life chances, it also fosters a deeper understanding of people and places beyond our own shores, and generates cultural capital that will serve pupils well not only in the next stage of education, but in their social and commercial activities in later life.
Language learning and cultural understanding have gained a new importance and resonance in the current political and economic climate. Language skills in this country often compare unfavourably with those of other nations, but starting in primary school gives children a head start and makes language learning a normal part of the curriculum early on in their school career.
Language and culture are inextricably linked, and language learning helps schools to cover SMSC (Spiritual, Moral, Social and Cultural development). Children learn about the different countries where the new language is spoken, and this causes them to reflect on their own surroundings and culture.
Younger children are more open and receptive to language learning, and have an innate curiosity and cognitive advantage when learning a language, its new words and new sounds. They are confident, curious and less anxious learners. Furthermore, learning a new language has also been shown to improve critical thinking skills and to enhance social skills.
At Walkington School, through our foreign language learning, we aim to:
- Lay firm foundation blocks in terms of phonics, grammar and vocabulary upon which pupils can confidently build future knowledge
- Foster a life-long positive attitude to learning languages and all the opportunities and benefits it can provide in later life
- Provide a range of lessons which engage and enthuse pupils, building their enthusiasm and capacity for language learning in subsequent Key Stages
- Through the parallel learning of language and culture, instil in children the critical role that language plays in national identity
- Use language learning as a vehicle for modelling our own positive behaviours as adult life-long learners and to promote a sense of global citizenship.
This intention also aligns closely with our aim of promoting the “Global Competencies” outlined by the OECD.
