Modern Foreign Languages (Spanish) – Curriculum Overview

At Lilycroft Primary School, our Modern Foreign Languages curriculum aims to develop pupils’ confidence in communicating in another language while fostering curiosity, respect and appreciation for other cultures. Spanish is taught from Key Stage 2, with a focus on speaking, listening, reading and writing in a meaningful and engaging way.

Our curriculum is carefully sequenced to build progressive language skills over time. Pupils begin by learning key vocabulary, phonics and simple phrases, before developing their ability to form sentences, hold conversations and express opinions. Through regular practice, pupils secure their phonics knowledge, pronunciation and understanding of grammar patterns.

Each unit is built around an enquiry question, encouraging pupils to apply their learning in context. Topics such as family, food, hobbies, school life and the wider world allow children to communicate about themselves and others, helping to make language learning purposeful and relevant.

Speaking and listening are prioritised, with frequent opportunities for pupils to practise conversations, role-play real-life situations and present their learning to others. Reading and writing are developed alongside, enabling pupils to interpret simple texts and construct their own sentences with increasing accuracy. This supports our school focus on oracy across all subjects.

Cultural understanding is a key element of our MFL curriculum. Pupils explore traditions and celebrations from Spanish-speaking countries, developing respect for diversity and a broader awareness of the world. This is further enriched through music, stories and cross-curricular links.

Our MFL curriculum supports pupils’ personal development by building confidence, communication skills and resilience. By the end of Key Stage 2, pupils are equipped with the knowledge and skills needed to continue their language learning journey at secondary school and to engage positively as global citizens. This is further enriched through our annual Spanish Day, where pupils explore Spanish culture through food, music, sport and a range of engaging cultural activities.