Expanding French Language Acquisition in ISL’s Primary School

The International School of Lausanne (ISL) has significantly changed how it resources and promotes French across the school, aiming to provide students with a robust foundation in linguistic proficiency from the earliest stages of their education. As we eagerly anticipate the forthcoming academic year, we will be implementing a series of innovative changes to our French curriculum in the Early Childhood and the lower Primary School.

To further strengthen the French language proficiency of our students, starting in August 2024, Our Reception 3 class will become a fully immersive environment, and from Reception 4 to Year 2 students will spend the equivalent of two full days each week with a French teacher.

This innovative model not only enhances language proficiency but also nurtures cross-curricular connections, enriching the overall learning experience for our students. A new era of immersive language learning awaits our students, promising opportunities for growth and development.

Central to our endeavours is the unwavering dedication of our faculty, who have collaborated closely with language specialists to refine and elevate our language programme. Through rigorous curriculum development and pedagogical innovation, we are committed to delivering high-quality instruction that equips students with the linguistic tools they need to thrive in an increasingly interconnected world.

The benefits of learning languages at an early age.

The benefits of early language acquisition are manifold, with research consistently demonstrating the cognitive, academic, and socio-cultural advantages afforded to multilingual learners. At ISL, we recognise the profound impact that language proficiency can have on students’ cognitive development, fostering creativity, critical thinking, and problem-solving skills. Moreover, proficiency in multiple languages enhances cultural competence, fostering a deep appreciation for diversity and global citizenship.

The early years is a language rich environment where children can develop language skills in a safe, fun and stimulating setting. By immersing students in a rich linguistic environment from a young age, we capitalise on this inherent receptivity, laying a solid foundation for lifelong language learning and proficiency.

As we embark on this transformative journey, we remain steadfast in our commitment to collaboration and partnership with parents. Recognising the pivotal role that parental involvement plays in supporting language development, we will provide resources and guidance to empower families in nurturing their child’s linguistic growth both inside and outside the classroom.

The enhancements to French language acquisition at ISL herald an exciting chapter in our ongoing commitment to academic excellence and linguistic diversity. By embracing the principles of immersion, collaboration, and innovation, we are poised to cultivate multilingual minds equipped with the skills and knowledge to thrive in an ever-evolving global landscape. Together, let us embark on this journey of discovery and empowerment, as we unlock the boundless potential of French language acquisition in ISL’s Primary School.