In Year 7, language learning in French has the emphasis firmly on enjoyment of the process of language acquisition and on making connections between the languages. Confidence and communication are key. In Year 8, they continue with their choice of two of the three Modern Languages until they make their GCSE options in Year 9. 

The Dynamo course we follow provides a lively context for language, with solid underpinning of grammar for building firm foundations. By the end of Year 9, girls have acquired a wide range of vocabulary, linguistic and idiomatic features, and can use past present and future tenses. They will also have had an introduction to the Imperfect and the Conditional. 

Girls choose at least one Modern Language for IGCSE, with many opting to be dual linguists.

They study the Edexcel specification and the examination consists of three papers:

1. Listening 25%
2. Reading and Writing 50%
3. Speaking 25%

Topics for study are:

• Home and abroad
• Education and employment
• Personal life and relationships
• The world around us
• Social activities, fitness and health

Girls have regular conversation classes in small groups with our French assistant to promote oral fluency and to develop their linguistic confidence. 

During the IGCSE course, as part of our Activity Week provision at the end of Year 10, they have the opportunity to travel to France for an immersive cultural and linguistic residential trip. 

A highlight of the language-learning calendar is our yearly Language Week. We immerse ourselves for a week, both in and outside lesson time in activities ranging from song, dance and poetry competitions to language quizzes, French cuisine, and the opportunity to learn a completely new language. We are launching ‘La Plus Belle Voix’ competition in Year 8 (French version of ‘The Voice’) and looking forward to the pupils’ rendition of the French songs. French cinema is also a strong medium to be exposed to language and culture which is what ‘Ciné Ce Soir’ aims to achieve. Both the Library and the IT department also join in the fun with additional challenges for the girls.

Speed Debating means our Sixth Formers are becoming quite adept at debating in French, enjoying the social contact with A Level students from other schools at our regular meetings, and discuss such hot topics as ‘What’s the point of getting married these days?’ and ‘Is it worth preserving French traditions?’

Year 10 have the opportunity in June to visit Paris and absorb the French culture  whilst immersing themselves in cultural visits, French language lessons and a trip to Parc Asterix.

Lower School Language Club is a celebration of each individual’s cultural background and interests. We have had many fascinating sessions this year with girls finding out about Indian weddings and learning a little Hindi, life in Sweden, South Africa, Rome and Moscow. We also play games, watch cartoons and practise language skills. 

Francofilles is an Upper School and Sixth Form club which focuses on aspects of French culture such as singer Stromae and the popularity of Verlan. Visiting speakers also always prove to be a highlight of this popular club.