Friday Headlines

13 December 2024

A few months ago, a group of thoughtful colleagues nominated our Prep MFL Co-ordinator, Madame Hennous, for the Primary French Teacher Award 2024 through the Institut Français. The nomination criteria included introducing innovative French teaching ideas and consistently inspiring pupils to learn the French language through diverse and engaging methods. 

Madame Hennous met and exceeded every requirement. She has transformed the way French and other modern foreign languages are taught, raising their profile through a variety of creative approaches. Interactive platforms like Kahoot and inventive games such as French Cluedo have made lessons engaging and fun. 

Her catchy songs have become legendary among pupils, and her introduction of a French phonics programme and WoLLoW (exploring the origins, history, and connections between languages) has brought greater cohesion to language learning. She also introduced the Junior Language Challenge, which adds stretch and challenge to the curriculum. Last summer, girls from EHS Prep achieved first and second places, with several others reaching the national final. 

Beyond the classroom, Madame Hennous has brought French to life through assemblies celebrating French-speaking countries (promoting equity, diversity, and inclusion), a French breakfast, and innovative use of the Green Screen for activities like a French café and fashion show. She also collaborates regularly with a consortium of other Prep language teachers to share best practices. 

The final of the awards took place on 7 December, at the Institut Français in London. Competing against top educators from across the country, Madame Hennous won the Primary French Teacher Award 2024, an incredible achievement. 

We are thrilled for her and feel privileged to have such a dedicated and inspiring teacher at Edgbaston High School. Félicitations, Madame Hennous!