Languages Faculty
Languages open the mind and grow the brain.
We seek to promote high standards of literacy by equipping all pupils with a strong command of the written and spoken word, and develop a love of language through enjoying reading, writing and engagement in different languages and cultures.
Within the Faculty, we believe that Languages are the keys to which we open the doors to new experiences and cultures. Exposure to a variety of languages from an early age can promote brain growth, out of the box thinking and fun.
The faculty’s vision is for the pupils of The Croft School to develop a deep understanding of their own Language, extend their vocabulary and investigate the links it has to other Indio-European languages.
English
English stands at the heart of every aspect of learning at The Croft, and our curriculum is underpinned by our aspiration for every student to develop a love of reading, writing and discussion.
An excellent English curriculum inspires an appreciation of our rich and varied literary heritage and develops high standards of language and literacy by equipping pupils with a strong command of the spoken and written word.
Children are given exciting and immersive learning experiences which link to other areas of the curriculum. Often, skills are developed around quality novels and texts chosen to pique the children’s curiosity and invite meaningful and lively discussion. A wide variety of writing genres are explored throughout the year and children are encouraged to take intellectual risks within the classroom, helping them to develop the skills they need to become lifelong learners.
Reading for pleasure is a significant factor in children’s cognitive development, and fostering a love of books and reading from an early age is vital. At The Croft, children are immersed in books and stories from Early Years all the way up to Year 6, and are helped to become independent and reflective readers as they move through the school. Their solid grounding in literacy skills will equip our children to be confident and successful along their educational journey and onwards into the wider world.
French
The French Language and culture are introduced through games, rôle-play, poems and songs. As the children grow in confidence and competence, understanding what they hear and read, they are given opportunities to use their knowledge and skills, in expressing themselves in speech and in writing. Grammar finds its way naturally into the learning process, without becoming an obstacle to expression. Emphasis is based on communication, and our aim is to give children l’amour de la langue française.
Latin
All Year 6 children learn Latin, using the engaging Cambridge 'Minimus' course, which focuses on life at the Roman fort at Vindolanda.
Our studies include Roman Britain, Roman and Greek myths, as well as language study. Led by Minimus the Mouse, the children learn basic Latin grammar and vocabulary, through stories featuring a real Vindolandan family.
The children use their ICT skills to make Latin birthday cards and menus, as well as investigating and researching Latin roots and mottos. We even try some Roman recipes!