FRENCH

As Catalonia's neighbour country, France and the French language have always been a source of great interest for Catalans. The similarities between Catalan and French, for centuries the global language of culture, mean that French is comparatively easily and quickly learned by Spanish and Catalan speakers.  

French is still an important language in European commerce, and useful to many companies.   What's more, being so close to France means that students of the language can practise it without having to travel far.

There are 3 different levels.

If you are interested in doing a French course, you need to come into the school to do an entrance test so that we can find out your level. The entrance test begins with a short 'fill the gaps' written exercise, which only takes 20 minutes to do. After this, there is a short oral test in which the teacher asks you some questions in French. In order to progress, you need to be placed in a group of students who have exactly the same level as you.  

Why do a French course at Cambridge School rather than at another school?

• Class sizes are small; there is a minimum of 5 students per class and a maximum of 15. The average class in Cambridge School has 9-10 students.

• Every adult course follows a specially designed syllabus which is written by the Head of the French Department and approved by the Director of Studies.

• The syllabus is updated from year to year so that it is always fresh, relevant and in line with current educational developments.

• Every course uses an up to date coursebook, specially chosen for the level. There is a workbook too which is usually used for homework.

• Every course has a specially selected reader, which students read as part of their homework. At lower levels, the reader contains simplified language so that the students can understand it more easily.

• Every month, the students have a short test based on their homework. These tests help students to consolidate what they have learned.

• There are two examinations, one halfway through the course and the other at the end of the course. These examinations test grammar and vocabulary as well as the four skills (speaking, listening, reading and writing). They help both teacher and student to see how much progress is being made on the course.

• All teachers attend weekly educational seminars designed to promote professional development.

• Teachers are encouraged to make their classes as enjoyable and useful as possible. All teachers have full internet access and have at their disposal, a vast collection of supplementary coursebooks and supplementary materials to suit all levels and all sorts of learners.

• Teachers also have easy access to a range of teaching aids and equipment including overhead projectors, video and DVD players, video and digital cameras, cassette players, whiteboards etc etc

• We ask the students to fill in two questionnaires during the course giving their opinions on the school, the course and their teacher. In this way, we are able to continually improve our service.

Cambridge School French courses are famous
for their professionalism and quality.