French at CCHS is a thriving subject in which students are encouraged to be creative in their use of the language and to develop an appreciation of the culture of France and French speaking countries as well as of the language structure. We also aim to provide students with the tools to expand their skills, applying their understanding to the learning of additional languages.
French is studied by all students from Year 7 to Year 9. In Year 9 students have the option of continuing their study of French to GCSE level . French is also a very popular option at advanced level.
At GCSE, around 95% of students achieve a top grade of 7-9 in French and at A level the vast majority of students achieve a top grade of A*A or B grades. Lessons in all years are intense and focussed, with a concentration on active learning techniques, higher order thinking skills and delivery of core grammatical concepts and structures through the various topic areas.
The department has an excellent track record of success and is willing to work hard to make the “best better”. Relationships between staff and students are of the highest quality and are demonstrated by the time devoted to the students outside of lessons when they need help. We offer a mentoring system in Year 12 and Year 13, supporting students in the preparation of their research for their oral topics. We have a rigorous system of tracking in all years, by which we can monitor individual progress against external and internal data and offer support as needed.
Key Stage 3
In years 7 – 9 students progress through the topic areas, gradually expanding the range of vocabulary and structures with which they are able to express themselves. By the end of year 9, students have achieved a good level of competence in the target language and are then ready to progress to the next stage of their learning.
GCSE (Edexcel)
The examination consists of:
- Two papers in reading and listening skills
- A speaking paper
- A written paper
A level (Edexcel)
The examination consists of:
- One paper in receptive skills
- A “responses to literary works” and translation paper
- A speaking paper including an individual research component
Extra-Curricular Activities
Various activities are organised throughout the year, including trips and Junior and Senior clubs. We also encourage students to take part in a wide range of competitions run by universities and language associations, many of whom are extremely successful. There are also clinics and support sessions offered by staff as appropriate.
