OUR CURRICULUM AIMS

We aim to develop a lifelong love of the study of the French language and the global French speaking world and civilisations past, present and future amongst our students playing a pivotal role in their journey to becoming inquiring, knowledgeable, responsible citizens of the future with the confidence to travel , ready  to work in a global workforce.  

Students learn to communicate confidently in French whilst also listening, reading and viewing for personal enjoyment and information. This also develops a great cultural awareness of a whole new world, essential for accessing the subject to maximum. This digital age lends itself perfectly to our work and the French department always embraces the use of new technologies, learning platforms and the extensive resources available for multidisciplinary and multi-sensory learning in and outside of lessons. We ensure careful use of authentic resources at all levels in order to enrich the experience and promote independent learning. The interactive nature of lessons also serves to maximise engagement and develop the ability to understand and manipulate the language.

The study of French and the grammar involves a process which in turn also trains the brain and can keep it healthier for longer and strengthen other academic in new contexts disciplines. From the study of earlier and more personal topics to the challenges of social and global issues such as the protection of the planet, Cybersociety, immigration, politics, the treatment of criminals, the protection of heritage and chosen research projects, the French department promotes and reinforces the AGSB values.  

We promote a love of learning through academic rigour, stretch and challenge, respect for others through exposure to different language, histories and cultures, responsibility towards our world, working as a global community and as individuals, and resilience in the face of something new, being prepared and comfortable to make mistakes, learn from them and keep trying. This is also put into practice through participation in competitions and memorable trips to Paris, Nice and Aix-en-Provence. 

All of the above is excellent preparation for independent travel to some of the most wonderful places in the world. The opportunity to work with a Foreign Language Assistant from France in lessons, supports students immensely with the enjoyment in speaking the language and enrichment of their linguistic and cultural understanding and competence, contributing hugely to their excellent academic achievement and progress at both KS4 and KS5. 

We are proud that our students have become highly proficient and fluent and leave us superbly prepared for higher study at Russell Group universities or Oxford and Cambridge in a time when foreign language skills are increasingly in demand as fewer people study them, they can access a wider range of university options and a richer university and life experience.