What does language learning actually look like in a primary school? How do children progress from their first words in French or Spanish to writing sentences and holding conversations? And how can schools recognise their achievements?
At Lingotot, we've been bringing languages to life for children since 2010.
We work with primary schools to deliver engaging, curriculum-aligned language lessons, helping children develop their speaking, listening, reading and writing skills. But rather than simply telling you what we do, we'd love to show you! From real classroom lessons and examples of children's work to a 16-year partnership with one of our schools, here's a closer look at Lingotot in action.
What does a Lingotot lesson look like?
If you walked into a Lingotot classroom, you'd find children actively participating in their language learning. Our lessons are interactive, practical and screen-free, with children learning through songs, stories, games, movement and conversation. Rather than simply memorising vocabulary, children have opportunities to hear, practise and use another language in everyday settings.
A typical lesson might involve children practising new vocabulary through a game, responding to questions in French or Spanish, or working together to build sentences. Our specialist tutors follow a structured curriculum while adapting activities to the age and ability of the children they're teaching. And because learning is progressive, each lesson builds on what children have already learned.
Take a look inside a real Lingotot classroom and see how children get involved in learning Spanish.
A real school example: 16 years of language learning at Catchgate Primary School
One of our longest-standing school relationships is with Catchgate Primary School in County Durham, where we've been teaching languages for 16 years! Our partnership began when the school wanted to introduce language learning to its youngest children. Catchgate recognised the benefits of early language learning and had heard positive feedback about Lingotot, so we began delivering sessions further down the school.
Over the years, we've taught both French and Spanish to children from Reception through to Year 6. When languages became compulsory at Key Stage 2 in maintained schools in England in 2014, the school's provision evolved. Lingotot began delivering weekly curriculum lessons for children in Years 3–6, with some additional sessions for younger pupils, particularly in Year 2, to help prepare them for Key Stage 2.
Today, we deliver weekly Spanish lessons throughout Key Stage 2, supporting children as they develop their language skills from Year 3 to Year 6.
Our relationship has also extended beyond the classroom, with Lingotot delivering holiday camps for the school. It's a lovely example of how language provision can develop alongside a school's changing needs. And after 16 years, we're still introducing new generations of Catchgate pupils to the excitement of learning another language!
After 16 years of working together, it's lovely to share a glimpse of language learning at Catchgate Primary School. Take a look at one of our lessons in action!
What does progress in primary language learning look like?
Enjoying language lessons is important, but children also need opportunities to develop their knowledge and skills over time. The National Curriculum for languages at Key Stage 2 expects pupils to make progress in speaking, listening, reading and writing.
At Lingotot, our curriculum is designed to support that progression.
Children might begin by recognising familiar words and responding to simple questions. As their knowledge develops, they can learn to express opinions, ask questions, understand longer sentences and communicate with increasing independence. Written work can provide a useful illustration of that development. For example, a pupil who initially learns individual words for hobbies might later be able to write sentences explaining which activities they enjoy and why.
The important thing is that children are developing language knowledge they can use, rather than simply learning vocabulary in isolation.
Real examples of children's language work show how pupils can begin combining vocabulary and grammar to communicate their ideas. For more information about progression, read our Primary Languages Curriculum Guide: What Should Children Learn in Years 3–6?.
Celebrating children's language achievements
One of our favourite things about teaching languages is seeing how proud children become of what they've achieved. At Lingotot, children can work towards our NCFE-accredited Certificate in Primary Languages, which recognises their developing skills in speaking, listening, reading and writing. The programme involves assessments completed during their learning, allowing children to build a portfolio of evidence rather than relying on one final examination. The certificate is accredited through NCFE's Investing in Quality scheme. It is not an Ofqual-regulated qualification.
At Catchgate Primary School, children have had the opportunity to celebrate their achievements by receiving their certificates during a Year 6 awards assembly. It's a particularly lovely moment, recognising the work children have put into learning another language throughout primary school. And we have the video to prove it!
Watch pupils at Catchgate Primary School receiving their Lingotot language certificates during a school awards assembly. What a wonderful way to celebrate their achievements!
What do headteachers say about Lingotot?
Choosing the right language provision is an important decision for any primary school. Schools need more than engaging lessons. They need reliable teaching, a well-planned curriculum and confidence that their pupils are developing their language skills.
At Lingotot, we understand how important it is to build strong relationships with the schools we work with. But rather than simply telling you about our approach, we'd like you to hear directly from a headteacher who has experienced Lingotot in their school.
We've shown you what happens in our lessons and how children celebrate their achievements. Now hear from someone who's experienced Lingotot for themselves.
How can Lingotot support your primary school?
Every school is different.
Some schools are looking for specialist language teachers to deliver their Key Stage 2 curriculum. Others need reliable MFL PPA cover, engaging extracurricular clubs or opportunities for children to achieve language certificates. At Lingotot, we work with schools to provide language teaching that meets their needs. Our longstanding relationship with Catchgate Primary School is one example of how that provision can evolve over time.
But whether we're working with a school for the first time or returning for another academic year, our aim remains the same: to help children develop their language skills through enjoyable, engaging and carefully planned lessons. If you're considering Lingotot for your school, we'd love to hear from you!
Discover how Lingotot works with primary schools.
More resources for primary schools
If you're reviewing your school's language provision, you might also find these guides useful: Primary MFL PPA Cover: A Practical Guide for Primary Schools
Practical advice for schools considering specialist language teaching as part of their PPA arrangements. Primary Languages Curriculum Guide: What Should Children Learn in Years 3–6?
An overview of curriculum expectations and progression in Key Stage 2 languages. Primary School Language Qualifications: How Can Children Gain a Certificate in French or Spanish?
Find out how children can work towards Lingotot's NCFE-accredited Certificate in Primary Languages.