French is an official working language of the UN, the International Red Cross, The European Economic Community, NATO, and the International Olympic Committee.
Perhaps a lesser known fact is that following the victory of the Normans over the English in the Battle of Hastings in 1066 French was the official language of England for about 300 years. For this reason, about 30 to 50% of the basic English words are of French origin. Therefore you know a great deal before you’ve even started!
Nous espérons que vous allez adorer les études Françaises avec nous. A bientôt!
All pupils start French in Year 7 and are placed in sets, according to their previous experience. They continue their French studies in Year 8 and Year 9. The four key language skills of speaking, listening, reading and writing are developed by using a range of up-to-date, interactive resources and ICT where possible. This dynamic approach ensures pupils have the best opportunity to engage with the language and learn about the culture of France.
From 2021 we aim to run a new trip to the Loire Valley and Futuroscope near Poitiers in the west of France. Pupils will discover fairytale chateaux and France's rich history as well as visit Europe's largest educational theme park.
At GCSE, following the AQA syllabus, the aim is to give pupils the confidence to communicate and develop their ideas and deal with day-to-day real life situations. Pupils have the opportunity to practise their language skills through regular contact with our French assistant as well as take part in our Language Immersion Programme to the beautiful southern French city of Montpellier. Once there, pupils stay with host families and attend bespoke lessons at the Languages School, as well as making the most of a cultural programme including anything from visiting Nimes and the Pont du Gard to a French cookery lesson.
See Sixth Form Curriculum here for full details of our A-Level French course.
We run a variety of languages clubs including Italian Club, plus French and Spanish speaking clubs.
Languages’ Week is a new initiative running alongside the European Day of Languages in September, which celebrates all things European through activities, guests speakers and language workshops.
Languages No Limits is our bi-annual careers event focusing solely on the career opportunities for those with one or more Modern Foreign Language. Guest speakers in the past have included GCHQ, Médecin Sans Frontières and the Intelligence Corps.
TRIPS
At GCSE & A Level we take pupils on university MFL specific open days where they meet language tutors, try taster sessions in another language and can talk to students who have experienced languages at degree level. Our close links with Bath Spa University mean we also have invitations to GCSE and A-Level workshop days.
Year 12 & 13 students are invited on the French Language School trip to the beautiful southern French city of Montpellier where they spend their mornings in class with French teachers where lessons are in closed groups and the content is designed to meet our curriculum. During the afternoons the students enjoy cultural based activities and visits in the local area. They stay with French families to complete the total immersion experience.