Our vision

Learning a foreign language opens doors to other cultures and ways of thinking. Through the CUSP French curriculum, pupils develop confidence as young linguists, building the foundations they need to communicate, understand others and continue language learning beyond primary school.

Our French curriculum is ambitious, carefully structured and built on evidence‑led practice so that all pupils can succeed, including teachers and pupils with little or no prior experience of French.

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When and how French is taught

French is taught from Year 3 to Year 6. Pupils learn French for around 30–40 minutes each week, either as one longer lesson or two shorter sessions.

The curriculum is organised into six blocks per year, each lasting five weeks, with additional time used for revisiting, consolidation or enrichment.

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What children learn

The French curriculum is carefully sequenced so that pupils revisit and build on key language over time. Each block focuses on developing knowledge and skills across four main areas:

• Vocabulary and phonics – learning how French sounds and words work
• Oracy – listening to and speaking French with confidence
• Reading – recognising and understanding written French
• Writing – beginning to record simple phrases and sentences

There is a strong emphasis on hearing, seeing and saying language first, ensuring pupils develop accurate pronunciation and confidence before being asked to write independently.

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Building confident linguists

Children learn French through clear routines that are consistent across the school. Teachers model the language, pupils practise together and then apply what they have learned independently.

Lessons follow a clear structure using:

• Teacher modelling (“My turn / Mon tour”)
• Guided practice (“Our turn / Notre tour”)
• Independent application (“Your turn / Votre tour”)

This approach helps pupils remember language and use it confidently.

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Phonics and pronunciation

French phonics are taught explicitly so pupils learn how French letters and sounds work. Audio models support both teachers and pupils, helping them hear accurate pronunciation regularly and clearly.

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Revisiting and remembering

Revisiting is built into every lesson and block. Pupils regularly return to previously learned words and structures so that language moves into long‑term memory. Teachers are encouraged to use French naturally during the school day, for example in greetings or simple classroom instructions.

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Cultural understanding

French lessons help pupils develop an understanding of French culture and life today, including customs, traditions, landmarks and notable people. Pupils also learn about France’s place in the wider world, supporting their global awareness and respect for other cultures.

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Assessment and progress

Assessment in French is ongoing and formative. Teachers assess through listening to pupils speak, observing participation and checking understanding during activities. Progress is shown by pupils’ increasing confidence, accuracy and willingness to use French independently.

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Inclusion and support

The CUSP French curriculum is fully resourced and designed so that all pupils can access learning, including those with SEND. Visual supports, audio models and flexible tasks ensure pupils can succeed regardless of starting point.

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In summary

Through the CUSP French curriculum, pupils leave primary school with:

• Confidence in listening to and speaking French
• Secure foundations in pronunciation and vocabulary
• An understanding of how languages work
• Curiosity and respect for other cultures

French at our school helps pupils become confident communicators and global citizens, ready to continue language learning in the future.