Why Study a Language?
French is studied from Year 1 in Pre-Prep and continues throughout the Prep School from Years 3 to 8. In the first few years it is taught in a variety of ways, using song, finger rhymes and lots of fun.
As children move into the Prep School, all lessons are taught in a dedicated suite of classrooms that are equipped with interactive whiteboards which complement an excellent range of resources. Each classroom also has access to 'learnpads' that are used to enhance learning.
Although the emphasis is firmly on listening and speaking, children develop their reading and writing skills to a high level, and are accomplished learners by Year 8. ICT resources are regularly used for practice and reinforcement of language whilst developing independent learning.
Events & Opportunities
In Year 5, children also study Spanish alongside their French for the year. For those newcomers in Years 7 and 8 who may not have studied as much French as the children currently in the school, extra support lessons are provided, enabling them to catch up with their peers. Currently this takes the form of extra lessons during hymn practice.
For many years we have taken all Year 7 pupils on a highly successful trip to either Switzerland or France. In recent years we have stayed in Morzine in the Alps where the children have received three hours of French lessons in the mornings and have taken part in outdoor activities in the afternoons. This is truly a highlight of the children's time at King's Hall and brings many benefits; linguistic, cultural and social.