Intent
A high-quality languages education at Castor Church of England Primary School aims to foster curiosity, deepen understanding of the world, and provide a broad, vibrant Spanish curriculum using the Oak National Academy framework. We maintain high expectations in language learning, ensuring our pupils build a solid foundation that prepares them to confidently study languages beyond Key Stage 2. The curriculum provides an appropriate balance of spoken and written language, helping pupils develop the necessary communication skills to interpret, create and exchange meaning across different cultures.
Implementation
Following the Oak National Academy programme, Key Stage 2 children at Castor are introduced to Spanish through a carefully sequenced, evidence-informed curriculum that develops early language acquisition. This framework allows pupils to understand the underlying patterns of language and how they compare or contrast with English. Lessons follow the MFL National Curriculum, seamlessly supporting the progressive skills of speaking, listening, reading, writing, and grammar. In the early stages, the emphasis is placed on listening attentively to spoken language and responding through interactive songs, rhymes, and games. As pupils progress through Key Stage 2, reading and writing skills are systematically developed so that children can appreciate a range of writing from authentic sources. Intercultural understanding is integrated throughout the lessons, helping pupils develop a deep respect for different cultures within our global community. Spanish is also woven into daily classroom routines, such as answering the register, to ensure the language remains active and meaningful.
Impact
The impact of our Oak National Academy Spanish curriculum is evident as pupils progress and demonstrate growing linguistic skills across each year group. Through continuous classroom monitoring, including regular lesson observations, pupil discussions, and formative oral and written exercises, progress is tracked against national expectations. This ongoing assessment ensures that pupils’ vocabulary, grammatical knowledge, and speaking confidence grow consistently as they move up the school.