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Modern Foreign Languages

Learning a new language broadens students' horizons and offers countless opportunities. These skills open doors for young people in terms of leisure and personal growth, as well as for future study and employment. Indeed, knowledge of more than one language is valued by employers both in the UK and internationally, while language skills also enrich travel experiences and support young people in building their confidence, communication and resilience.

Lessons in the MFL Department at Amery Hill School aim to foster students’ enjoyment of language learning, promote understanding and appreciation of other cultures, and encourage pride in linguistic achievement. We offer a number of opportunities for our students to immerse themselves in the language being studied through enrichment activities here at school, as well as by travelling abroad.

All language learning focuses on four core skills:

  • Listening
  • Speaking
  • Reading
  • Writing

Key Stage 3 Curriculum

In Years 7, 8 and 9, students will study either French or German. This approach gives all students a firm grounding in one language, increasing their enjoyment and heightening their sense of achievement as they develop vital language-learning skills.

Students will explore a diverse range of topics, including:

  • People, Relationships and Daily Life
  • Food and Drink
  • School Life, Education and Hobbies
  • Media, Holidays, Jobs and Ambitions
  • Festivals and Traditions in French- and German-speaking countries.

The curriculum enhances students’ knowledge of vocabulary, grammar and phonics (the sounds of the language). The four core skills are honed throughout these units, ensuring clear progression in linguistic knowledge throughout Key Stage 3.

GCSE Study

Students are encouraged to pursue a foreign language at GCSE level. Currently, we offer French and German, following the AQA exam board.

The four key skills (listening, reading, writing and speaking) are refined through three broad themes:

  • Theme 1: People and lifestyle
  • Theme 2: Popular culture
  • Theme 3: Communication and the world around us

Students continue to advance their knowledge of phonics, vocabulary and grammar in Years 10 and 11.

Trips and Enrichment

In Years 8 and 9, students have the exciting opportunity to travel to France or Germany to experience the culture firsthand, broaden their horizons, and practise their chosen language in a real-world setting. Beyond these trips, there are numerous MFL enrichment opportunities for students to get involved in at Amery Hill, such as MFL House competitions and our Year 10 penpal project with schools in Alton’s twin town, Pertuis in France.