Languages
Intent
A Holy Family linguist is a confident communicator who develops a love of languages and an appreciation of different cultures.
By being immersed in the Spanish language and culture, our pupils build the skills needed to listen, speak, read, write and use grammar with growing accuracy and fluency. We encourage them to value the role of language in connecting people and communities within a multilingual society.
Our broad approach ensures pupils can apply their knowledge in a variety of contexts, laying firm foundations for future study. Above all, we aim to inspire curiosity, respect for other cultures, and a lifelong enthusiasm for language learning.
Implementation
Pupils are taught Spanish for half an hour each week from Years 3–6, following a progressive, skills-based approach. Learning is organised into topics that build upon prior knowledge.
Our curriculum is mainly delivered through the Language Angels scheme, with teachers adapting and organising lessons to meet the needs of their classes.
All children in Key Stage 2 have a Spanish folder where written work is kept. Most work begins orally, with pupils repeating words and phrases to improve pronunciation, and using songs to support understanding.
Children are also encouraged to practise Spanish as part of their daily routines — for example, answering the register, naming objects in the classroom, counting items, or greeting each other at the start of the day.
Catholic Social Teaching
The teaching of Spanish at Holy Family reflects Catholic Social Teaching values. Pupils learn to value the dignity of every person, respect cultural diversity, and build solidarity with the global community. By breaking down barriers to communication, they are inspired to promote justice, compassion, and the common good.
Measuring Impact
By the end of each year, pupils are expected to have an age-appropriate understanding of, and confidence in, speaking, listening, reading and writing in Spanish. Teachers assess pupils’ progress at three points across the academic year, using both classwork and oral contributions. These judgements also inform annual reports to parents.