Gaelscoil Ó Doghair

Our school is delighted to be learning French as part of the Modern Languages in Primary Schools Initiative (MLPSI).  We joined the MLPSI in 2002 and since then, all students in the 5th and 6th classes have been learning French. It is a voluntary programme and we have chosen to be part of this exciting project because of the many learning opportunities and benefits it can bring to the children, teachers and wider school community. During their studies the students learn greetings, colours, names of days and months, pastimes, family, food etc. The students are also partially immersed in French Culture during the class and learn games and songs to make learning French more fun. We are extremely lucky to have such a dedicated and talented teacher as Mme. Bernadine. Due to her efforts the students look forward to the French classes each week.

There are many reasons why the learning of another modern language at primary school is beneficial for children. Research has shown that children who are introduced to other languages from an early age can become more proficient language learners and that learning another language can have positive effects on the learning of other curriculum subjects. Evaluations of the MLPSI have also noted the positive effects it has had on pupils not only linguistically and academically, but also socially in terms of their self-esteem, confidence and in assisting their preparation for second level.For more information on the MLPSI, see the project’s website – www.mlpsi.ie