We use cookies to track visits to our website, via google analytics
More about cookies

French A-level

“Choosing an A-level language is a really smart move if you want a fascinating subject that offers you a range of career possibilities at the end and are a lot of fun along the way.” - Routes into Languages

Studying French at A-level, will not only improve your language skills, but it will provide you with insights into France’s history and culture. If you do plan on travelling after school, this knowledge will truly enhance your experience.


Why study French?

Studying French can provide you with the key to so many opportunities for the future. French is one of the most widely-spoken languages in the world and is often used in the fields of science and engineering. With France being one of the UK’s largest European trading partners, French can provide you with a number of career opportunities. The British Council sees French to be a big asset to UK companies, and post-Brexit it’s likely to continue to grow in importance. If we want to compete in the global market we need good communicators, able linguists and that could be you!


Why languages?

  • For further study - Universities really value language A-levels as they understand the skills you learn on the course. Having French A-level will definitely make you stand out from the crowd!
  • For increased career opportunities - As well as traditional occupations such as translating, interpreting or language teaching, linguists can pursue careers in business services, government, contact centres, engineering, event management, financial services, marketing, media, public services, travel and tourism or voluntary and charitable work.
  • For increased earning potential – People who learn a foreign language earn an extra £3000 a year – a total of £145 000 over their lifetime.

Why should you choose St Christopher’s to study French?

We are an experienced team of enthusiastic, specialist linguists who are committed to motivating and supporting students so they achieve their potential. You would benefit from our small group teaching and our wide range of up-to-date authentic resources. With a strong emphasis on oral skills during class time, you will develop into a confident speaker of French with a robust understanding of grammar.


What will I study?

We follow the EDEXCEL syllabus and its 4 themes:

  • Changes in French society - family, education and employment.
  • Political and artistic culture in French speaking countries - music, media, festivals and traditions.
  • Immigration and multiculturalism in France.
  • France during the occupation - How was French people’s life affected during this period?
  • We also study a film and a novel for the cultural paper.

The Pearson Edexcel Level 3 Advanced GCE in French has been developed to inspire all students who have an appreciation of the language, literature, film and culture of the French-speaking world.


How will I be assessed?

There are 3 papers:

  • Paper 1: Listening, Reading and Translation (40%)
  • Paper 2: Written response to works and translation. This essay paper is based on the book and film we study. (30%)
  • Paper 3: Speaking (30%). This is conducted by one of our staff and involves a discussion on one of the themes studied as well as an independent research project.


What grade do I need to access this course?

Students must have achieved at least a grade 5 at French GCSE.
For further information please contact Mrs O Hamey via email.

Purpose and Provision

Download a copy of the Modern Foreign Languages Departments Purpose and Provision document here


Curriculum Map

Download a copy of the Modern Foreign Languages Departments Curriculum Map document here.