Modern Foreign Languages
MFL overview
The ability to speak a foreign language is a highly useful skill in a multicultural world. Not only does it facilitate travel and leisure; it can also open doors to a world of exciting career opportunities.
At Goldington Academy we aim to give all pupils, regardless of ability, the desire to speak and enjoy a foreign language. The MFL department is enthusiastic and dedicated in our approach to teaching; in short, we believe that language lessons should be exciting, inspiring and fulfilling!
Key Stage 3 curriculum
At Key Stage 3, all pupils study French, supported by the “Dynamo” course from Pearson, building a logical progression and giving a taste of Francophone culture.
In Year 7, pupils develop French speaking (including phonics) and listening skills through songs, games, and pair work. Simple grammar is introduced, and pupils write sentences and paragraphs describing their world.
In Year 8, pupils continue developing pronunciation and written skills, exploring more complex grammar and expressing sophisticated opinions.
In Year 9, pupils continue French and begin Spanish for one hour per week, covering introductions, numbers, months, colours, and family/school topics. French topics deepen in complexity and grammar knowledge is consolidated.
Key Stage 4 curriculum
GCSE students follow the ‘Studio’ course for French and ‘Viva!’ course for Spanish (Pearson), divided into Foundation & Higher sets. They use all four language skills – listening, reading, writing, and speaking – for assessment.
From September 2024, students will follow the new Edexcel French and Spanish GCSE curricula. First exams will be in June 2026.
AQA French GCSE past papers and mark schemes (Y11 only)
Click on the links below for past papers and mark schemes. Other past papers will be highlighted when available.