Today is the sixth and final day with Helene our French teacher. Thanks Helene for giving the children this wonderful opportunity to 3rd, 4th, 5th and 6th classes.

This term, DSP took part in a 6 week pilot scheme to introduce modern foreign languages to primary schools.

Organised by Post Primary Languages Ireland, the aim of the pilot is to inform future developments in the area of modern languages in the primary curriculum. The scheme gives pupils an early experience of a foreign language & further expands their awareness of the diverse languages and cultures.

Helene Giacometti, who runs Mimi’s French Classes and is a parent in DSP, has taught French to the 3rd, 4th, 5th and 6th classes during the 6 week pilot.

According to Helene, “The children have an amazing capacity to learn languages at this age, especially if it’s fun and active learning. Teaching them French through play, singing, dancing, and games keeps them engaged & promotes active learning. They have been learning words and phrases for French greetings, numbers, colours, clothes, toys and Christmas vocabulary. Also, I couldn’t have wished for a better school to help run this pilot, the children have been incredibly enthusiastic and open to learning. Thank you DSP!”.

When we include different languages in children’s learning we foster respect for and understanding of other cultures. By taking this opportunity to get involved in this scheme, DSP has embraced the wonderfully diverse world of languages that is shared throughout the community.