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French is a beautiful, rich, melodious language and learning to speak and use it fluently is invaluable and enjoyable. You will gain a highly respected qualification and at the same time develop the skill of communicating fluently in a language that is spoken all over the world, not just in France.

Studying grammar enables you to understand how the language really works so that you can express your opinions spontaneously, rather than by learning phrases by heart, and studying the cultures and topical issues of the French-speaking world will help you understand the similarities and differences between the English and French languages and their peoples.

Research shows that this subject develops your confidence and personal communication skills as well as your problem solving, creative and critical thinking skills, all of which give you an edge in the job market.

Year 1

  • Social issues and trends
Theme 1: Changes in French society
  • Changes in family structures
  • Education
  • The world of work
Theme 2: The political and artistic cultures in French-Speaking countries
  • Music
  • Media
  • Festivals and Traditions

Year 2

Theme 3: Immigration and French multicultural society
  • The positive impact of immigration on French Society
  • Challenges of immigration and integration in France
  • The far right
Theme 4: Occupation and Resistance
  • Occupied France
  • The Vichy regime
  • The French Resistance

I have particularly enjoyed studying a wide range of topics, such as history, literature and politics to gain an immersive understanding of not just the language but also the culture.

Fiona Picchetti-Geoffroy ex Patcham High School

Course Essentials

Courses Available
A Level
Entry Requirements

PLUS
Grade 6 in GCSE French
How The Course is Assessed
100% exam
Career Pathways
Towards fluency in the language, further study of the language at degree level or as part of a degree, and towards far greater opportunities for employment in the future. Other modern languages can be studied at degree level if you prove your competence in any language at Advanced Level.
Transferable Skills
Effective communication; listening, organisational and social skills; sharper writing skills; improved use of English language; analysis; decision-making; problem solving; memory and multi-tasking skills.
Other Information
GCSE French is also offered as part of the Adult Education programme, subject to recruitment.
Enquiries To
Stephanie Jurado: sjj@varndean.ac.uk