Curriculum Intent
The purpose of education is to give all pupils regardless of their background, the opportunity to develop knowledge and skills across a range of subjects. Education should give students the chance to broaden their horizons in order to have a better understanding of the world around them. Learning another language opens you up to an exciting new world and through learning French, German or Spanish, students will be able to expand their vocabulary and have an understanding of the relevant phonics and grammar which will enable them to develop their communication skills across a range of varied topics. The aim is for all pupils to be curious and passionate about language learning whilst developing their ability to manipulate the language confidently and accurately. Students will also be able to develop an understanding of the target language society and culture enabling them to develop into a global citizen who can see the world from a new perspective, and this is reinforced during trips abroad where students can put what they have learnt into practice. When learning French, German or Spanish students do not simply learn a language; they learn communication, adaptability, confidence, problem solving and analytical thinking – skills which are valued by universities and employers alike. We hope our students will develop these skills as well as embodying the resilience, compassion, thoughtfulness and reflectiveness of our school virtues through their language learning journey. We aim to inspire students to be lifelong language learners who go on to use the skills they learn with us to create a successful future for themselves.
Languages Learning Journeys
We aim to provide all students with a positive language learning experience which will not only help to develop their communication skills but also their understanding of other cultures. At English Martyrs, we regard language learning as far more than a classroom subject which is why we aim to give students the opportunity to put what they have learnt into practice by organising trips to the countries where the languages are spoken. Knowledge of a foreign language is a vital skill that can broaden students’ horizons and for this reason it is valued greatly by universities and employers alike.
Languages KS3 Curriculum Overviews
GCSE
AQA GCSE French, German or Spanish – The new GCSE course builds on the topics studied and the skills developed in Key Stage 3. Throughout the two-year course, students will widen their vocabulary in their chosen language(s), improve their knowledge of grammar as well as develop key communication skills which will assist them in their future career.
Students will take four exams (one in each skill area) at the end of the two-year course. Each of these exams (listening, speaking, reading and writing) will equate to 25% of their overall grade.
Topics of study include family, technology, free-time activities, customs and festivals, home and local area, charity work, environment, holidays, school and future plans. By developing their understanding of each of these topics, students will learn very practical language skills that are highly regarded by both universities and employers.
Students who successfully complete the course will be well-equipped to study their chosen language(s) at the Sixth Form college and/or beyond.
Languages GCSE Curriculum Overviews
Sixth Form
AQA A Level French, German or Spanish – The new A level course enables students to further develop the skills acquired at GCSE and gain a deeper insight into the countries where the languages are spoken. Students will study a range of cultural and social topics (for example: family and relationships, the digitalisation of society and music). They will be expected to show an understanding of the society in the country/countries where the target language is spoken in relation to these topics.
All students will also study a film and a book in the target language and they will be required to write analytical essays about both as part of the writing exam.
Students complete three examinations at the end of the course. These include:
- Paper 1 – Listening, reading, writing and translation (worth 50% of the overall mark)
- Paper 2 – Writing (worth 20%)
- Paper 3 – Speaking (worth 30%)