Languages
French
We offer French from a young age as not only does it enable children to become more confident and creative in their thinking, but it also broadens their cultural horizons. French is introduced to pupils in the Early Years (Kindergarten and Reception) through songs, games and stories. As the boys and girls move up to Pre-Prep, they are encouraged to speak in French and teaching incorporates learning about France, its customs and culture. Year 1 have one 20 minute lesson and Year 2 have a 30 minute lesson each week.
In Prep, all pupils follow a course called TIP TOP, which takes a fun and communicative approach to learning with a wealth of exercises to practise reading, speaking, listening and writing in French. The course reinforces all the topics covered in Key Stage 1 but also includes; school life, school subjects, ordering food, expressing likes and dislikes, meal-times and leisure activities. As a school, we subscribe to the Linguascope and Languagenut websites, which we make full use of. French is timetabled for two 30 minute lessons per week. In Year 6, pupils go to France on a residential course of French language and culture to put all their learning into practice.
In addition, St Hilary's offers pupils in Prep the opportunity to host one of the girls from Ombrosa School. Ombrosa, based in Lyon in France, provides its pupils with the opportunity to experience life abroad, not only to improve their language skills, but also to gain maturity and develop friendships. As well as being a linguistic journey, this is a real cultural exchange with pedagogic aims. Although a return visit is not compulsory to take part in their programme, Ombrosa are happy to welcome St Hilary's pupils back to their school.