French

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French

Bienvenue dans le Département de Français!

The French department has an exciting programme of language teaching and learning. Lessons are taught by experienced native teachers, who love to bring French culture alive and share their expertise of their language.

The aims of the department are:

  • To develop the ability to use the target language effectively for the purposes of practical communication.
  • To encourage positive attitudes to foreign language learning and to speakers of foreign languages.
  • To foster a sympathetic understanding of the culture and civilisation of countries whose first language is the target language.
  • To enable our students to develop as global citizens through the discovery of the French-speaking world and its multiculturalism.
  • To provide enjoyment and intellectual stimulation.

Pupils can choose French at the start of Year 8. They can also continue to study French at GCSE and A-level. Pupils are able to study one, two or three languages at GCSE and A-level and the department has a strong track record of developing linguists who go on to study the language at prestigious universities.

The language department makes regular use of technology to enhance learning, using iPads and language learning apps extensively and making regular use of our Virtual Board Room to organise videoconferences with our partner schools in France. Pupils enjoy a range of co-curricular activities including Translation Club, International Film Club and a French Café Club for Sixth Formers. We run clinics and clubs to enthuse our pupils and attend external revision conferences for GCSE and A-level.

In order to enrich the girls’ experience of the language and culture, we enjoy celebrating French festivals in school. For instance, we traditionally celebrate the Epiphany in the French fashion with a “galette des rois” and the crowning of our Queen!

We run many trips abroad to help our girls practise their language skills including a study trip to the South of France for pupils studying French. This gives the girls the opportunity to see the French they have learned in the classroom really come to life. Regular film, theatre and restaurant visits also take place.

French GCSE Past Papers & Inspiration