Key Stage 3 (Secondary)

Interaction programmes in France and the Key stage 3 Framework for Modern Foreign Language learning

The Department of Children, Schools and Families Key stage 3 framework for modern foreign language learning reference document refers to  the learning objectives for foreign language learning.

The learning objectives

General background

The phrase 'target language' refers to:

• how teachers and pupils use the language to engage with the content or theme of the lesson.
• how teachers and pupils use the language for teacher-pupil, pupil-teacher and pupil-pupil interaction within the classroom, for example, in social interaction or to discuss their work.

If pupils are to master and use a language for effective communication, the target language needs to be used extensively by teachers and pupils. The secondary programme of study for languages states:

The curriculum should provide opportunities for pupils to:

a) Hear, speak, read and write in the target language regularly and frequently within the classroom and beyond

b) communicate in the target language individually, in pairs, in groups and with speakers of the target language, including native speakers where possible, for a variety of purposes.

How our Interaction programme enables your pupils to progress these skills

Our Interaction programme in France for Key Stage 3 enables pupils to hear and speak in the target language, with native speakers of the target language (French pupils linked to your class). Language exchanges and development between your pupils and the French pupils during the residential stay is the one of the key factors of the success of our Interaction programmes.

Using our extensive links with Educational bodies in Northern France, Voyager link your UK school with a suitable profile French school in the area. We do this well in advance of your trip so there are plenty of opportunities for email and video conference correspondence before even reaching France. We actively encourage UK and French pupils to get to know one another before the trip in the belief that pupils will feel more comfortable learning alongside children they already know. Because most communication will be via electronic means, links with the Key Stage 3 ICT strategy units are also possible.

This innovative year long educational programme has two options:

School Visit

A visit to the French partner school for one or two half days during your stay. Students will get the opportunity to experience authentic French lessons and the difference of school life in France.

or 

Shared Residential

A joint residential stay in one of our residential centers in France with pupils from the French partner school. Students will enjoy a range of activities whilst engaging with French pupils and improving their language skills. The residential program includes optional sporting activities which provides team-building opportunities during their stay

Accommodation & Inspection Visits

Please see our Venues page for details of accommodation across Northern France, including 4 centres in Paris and our Teachers page for details of inspection visits.

Other features:

Historical and cultural visits

The educational residential programme is tailor-made to incorporate visits related to the curriculum identified by your school. These may include visits to tourism attractions, surveys of local commerce, comparisons of local and global industries, studies of historical sites and Art Study tours.

Evening entertainments 

Evening entertainments are carefully devised to include use of the French language, cooperation and communication between pupils.

Follow up to residential trip

Each school has the opportunity to complete a joint educational programme/project after the residential trip enabling year long communication  and beneficial linguistic development.