French

French, like Spanish, is taught for two lessons a week as a joint first modern foreign language, building on the achievements of the primary phase.  We do assume that pupils have prior knowledge of this language, and so split pupils into two groups according to linguistic experience.

Pupils  are encouraged to develop a good accent from the very start of the course, which is taught largely in French, although grammar points will be explained and notes written in English. There will be opportunities to create and perform short sketches on a small stage, which is a feature of all three language classrooms.

Regular tests using our unique eAssessment system that maximises our use of Chromebooks, is not only effective in creating and recognising progress, it also takes the pressure off pupils by spreading the load throughout the year. There are four testing points four times a year in the separate  language skills of speaking, listening, reading and writing. Pupils at this level have to prepare  six PRQs (personal response questions) per testing period that they are able to adapt to suit their personality and opinion from the excellent scaffolded material we provide for them.