Intent:

The intent of CUSP French is to provide a high-quality language education that develops children’s linguistic skills and cultural understanding, preparing them to engage with the French language in meaningful, real-world contexts. The curriculum focuses on phonics, grammar, vocabulary acquisition, oracy, reading, and writing, ensuring that children not only learn the language but also understand the building blocks of becoming linguists. The curriculum is designed to equip our children with language skills that are useful and relevant to important global topics such as the environment, wellbeing, and travel. Additionally, CUSP French aims to deepen children’s understanding of French culture, customs, and traditions, helping them draw comparisons and appreciate both similarities and differences between French and British life. Through this, children are encouraged to develop a broader global perspective, learning about the geography, history, and key achievements of French civilisation.

Implementation:

CUSP French is implemented through a carefully sequenced curriculum that revisits key areas of language learning throughout. Each unit of study focuses on different aspects of the language, including phonics, grammar, reading, writing, and oracy, ensuring that children consistently build on their knowledge. The use of Knowledge Notes supports instruction and helps children revisit and consolidate new concepts. The curriculum emphasises both vocabulary acquisition and the foundational elements of language learning, encouraging children to actively engage with and practice the language. Cultural understanding is integrated throughout, with a particular focus on the geography of France, its traditions, and the wider impact of French civilisation on the world. The curriculum provides structured opportunities for children to explore the customs and heritage of France and to consider how these relate to their own lives in modern Britain.

Impact:

The impact of CUSP French is seen in children who not only develop strong language skills but also gain a deep appreciation for French culture and its global significance. By the end of the curriculum, our children are confident linguists who can use French to engage in meaningful conversations, express themselves in writing, and understand the cultural context behind the language. Through the cumulative and well-structured approach, our children progressively deepen their knowledge and mastery of French. They also develop a broader global perspective, understanding the customs, traditions, and geographical context of France and how these elements intersect with the wider world. This helps children to become informed global citizens who can navigate diverse cultural contexts and appreciate the richness of other languages and traditions.