An extension of the fabulous programme of French learning at The Manor Preparatory School, Abingdon, to children as young as the age of three, is a new initiative this term.

In line with government guidelines, to be implemented from this month and which requires all primary school children to have access to a foreign language, and with the eager support of enthusiastic parents, the delivery of French lessons has been extended from Year Six to the nursery.

The head of French, Mrs Monica Hyde, featured in the August/September edition of The Oxford Times’ In Business magazine, is excited at the thought of introducing the sounds of the language through fun with songs and games. Keen to capitalise on children’s power of learning through songs, fun and interactive activities, Mrs Hyde has published an excellent range of commercially available French teaching materials called ‘Zim Zam Zoum’ (www.taughtbysong.com) which has been a key to the children’s enjoyment of French at The Manor for several years.

Madame Anne-Gaëlle Spikes, the second in department, who recently led a most successful Year Six trip to Normandy, also embraces the idea of introducing children to the language from a very early age.

She said: “It will furnish the boys and girls with confidence and enthusiasm for the language before their more formal study of French starts.”

At The Manor, the girls and boys always have a focus to their French studies which motivates them to be able to communicate and gives them a great reason to do so.

In Year Three, the children work towards a fabulous ‘French Breakfast’ event. On this occasion, the school dining hall is transformed into a French café and the children are served by the staff with croissants, pains au chocolat, confiture, beurre and jus d’orange. French is spoken throughout and the atmosphere is enhanced by cheerful French music.

The Year Four pupils take on even more of a challenge with their ‘Déjeuner à la Française’ where they prepare a delicious meal for their parents and then serve them — speaking in French.

Much time is dedicated to learning all the recipes and the vocabulary needed. The morning is spent producing the delicious meal of soupe Vichyssoise, pâtés, cheeses, salad and bread followed by tarte tatin.

This year, The Manor invited a special guest, Raymond Blanc, who talked to the children about the best variety of apples to use and how to try to use local and seasonal ingredients at all times.

He also emphasised the importance of being a responsible consumer. The afternoon saw a musical presentation for Monsieur Blanc, followed by a vote of thanks in French from the girls in Year Six. His enthusiasm for the girls’ study of both the French language and culture was infectious, and he paid tribute to the outstanding French teaching in the school.

Acting and singing talents are incorporated into the Year Five challenge, The girls join a host of other local schools at the annual French Festival where items on the broad programme include short plays, song and poetry readings.

By this time, the girls’ confidence and enthusiasm is evident. It is clear that they are ready for the ultimate challenge of the Year Six trip to Normandy. For many girls, this five-day residential at the end of the summer term is one of the highlights of their time at The Manor. Friendships, growing independence, the study of French and Second World War history are all incorporated in a week packed with activities and opportunities.

Daily bulletins and photos on the website allow parents and the rest of the school to keep in touch with the excitement which is shared by our whole community.

This year, our three and four-year-olds will be able to actively participate in the school’s embracing of the French language, history and culture for the first time.

We look forward to watching their guaranteed enjoyment of it.