What do we do?

At Wightwick Hall School, we teach Modern Foreign Languages through an annual Cultural Week which takes place during the Summer Term. Instead of a traditional language led approach, our MFL curriculum focuses on enriching cultural understanding, broadening pupils’ world views and giving them immersive experiences that develop cultural capital.

Each form group explores a chosen country or culture and creates an engaging, multi sensory experience that brings global learning to life. This approach allows learners with a wide range of Special Educational Needs to access meaningful cultural education in a way that feels relevant, enjoyable and accessible.

Through Cultural Week, students develop curiosity about the wider world, build respect for diversity and develop greater awareness of the global community they are part of.

How do we do it?

We deliver MFL through project based, immersive and sensory learning experiences designed to be inclusive for every learner.

Cultural Week Structure

Each form group selects a country or culture to explore. They engage in activities such as:

• tasting traditional foods
• learning simple greetings or words from another language
• exploring music, dance or art styles
• studying landmarks, traditions and festivals
• re creating cultural environments in their classrooms
• producing creative projects that celebrate their chosen culture

Classrooms become transformed into immersive environments which might include decorations, artefacts, music, displays, sensory elements or themed activities.

Cross Curricular Connections

Cultural Week draws together learning from a range of subjects including:

• Geography: maps, climate, landscapes, global awareness
• History: traditions, historical figures, national events
• Food Technology: cooking and tasting dishes
• Art and Design: textiles, patterns, cultural crafts
• Music: traditional songs, instruments and rhythms
• English: storytelling, vocabulary, shared texts
• PSHE: values, respect and diversity

This multidisciplinary approach helps students understand culture in a holistic way, without the barriers often posed by formal language learning.

Inclusivity and Accessibility

• Activities are adapted for sensory needs, communication styles and individual EHCP targets.
• Visuals, symbols, objects of reference and communication aids support understanding.
• Practical, hands on tasks ensure high engagement for learners of all abilities.
• Staff use modelling, repetition and scaffolding to promote participation and confidence.

Celebration and Enrichment

Cultural Week ends with a whole school celebration where each form group shares its cultural journey. This might include:

• displays and exhibitions
• performances
• food tasting
• presentations or videos
• interactive experiences for other classes

The celebration strengthens community spirit and allows students to showcase their learning with pride.

SMSC Development

MFL through Cultural Week nurtures:

• Spiritual understanding – exploring meaning, traditions and global beliefs
• Moral development – learning respect, fairness and empathy
• Social skills – teamwork, communication, shared experiences
• Cultural awareness – valuing diversity, exploring world cultures and reflecting on personal identity

These elements contribute directly to students becoming knowledgeable, respectful and engaged members of society.

Why do we do it?

We teach MFL through Cultural Week because it provides an accessible and meaningful approach to global learning for SEN students, without the barriers of formal language acquisition.

Top 5 Impacts

1. Increased Cultural Capital
Students learn about food, festivals, traditions, art and music from around the world, broadening their understanding of life beyond their own community.

2. Improved Engagement and Enjoyment
Immersive, sensory rich experiences motivate learners and help them retain knowledge in a memorable way.

3. Enhanced Social and Communication Skills
Working as a class team builds confidence, cooperation, problem solving and communication, supporting EHCP outcomes across all four areas.

4. Development of Respect and Empathy
Students gain a deeper understanding of different ways of life, learning to appreciate and celebrate diversity.

5. Stronger Links to Preparation for Adulthood
Cultural understanding supports community participation, tolerance, open mindedness and adaptability in future settings including college, employment and independent living.