French
A Level French develops your fluency in the language while deepening your understanding of French‑speaking cultures and societies. By the end of the course, you will be able to communicate confidently and effectively in French.
This course also supports the development of transferable skills and prepares you for further study and global career opportunities.
- Qualification
- A Level
- Duration
- 2 years
Why study French at St Brendan’s?
Studying French allows you to become fluent in another language whilst developing valuable communication skills and an insight into different cultures. A foreign language qualification is highly valued by employers and supports progression into a wide range of careers.
The course also develops confidence, independence and new ways of thinking.
Entry requirements
- 5 GCSEs at grade 4 or above
- GCSE English Language at grade 4
- GCSE French at grade 6 or above
- GCSE Maths at grade 3 or above
Course examination breakdown
What else do I need to know?
5 GCSEs at grade 4 or above
GCSE English Language at grade 4
GCSE French at grade 6 or above
GCSE Maths at grade 3 or above
You will study a wide range of topics related to French‑speaking society, including:
- Social issues and trends
- The changing nature of the family
- Cyber society
- The role of voluntary work
- Diversity, marginalisation and crime
- Political, intellectual and artistic culture
- Cultural heritage
- Francophone music and cinema
- Political engagement and trade unions
- The politics of immigration
A Level French can be taken as a fourth subject if Aspire or fully bilingual
Skills Developed
- Fluent communication in French
- Listening, reading, writing and speaking skills
- Critical thinking and analytical skills
- Cultural awareness and understanding
Teaching includes:
- Interactive lessons with pair and group work
- Independent study and research
- Regular use of French in the classroom
Students are encouraged to take initiative, with progress monitored throughout the course.
Assessment takes place at the end of the two‑year course and covers:
- Listening
- Reading
- Writing
- Speaking
Students have access to a variety of learning resources, including:
- Digital textbooks with access to Kerboodle
- Films and authentic materials
- Television and radio podcasts
- Online resources and teacher‑prepared materials
Students also use:
- Podcasts, videos, homework and classwork via the Virtual Learning Environment
- Students are expected to purchase a revision book for independent study.
Students are expected to purchase:
- A revision book
- Additional costs may apply for optional trips and international experiences, including language courses or travel to France.
A Level French can be combined with a wide range of A Level subjects.
A Level French supports progression into:
- University courses in languages or other subjects
- Careers in fields such as business, engineering, medicine, diplomacy and the sciences
- Language skills are highly valued across many industries.
Students benefit from a range of enrichment opportunities, including:
- Trips to the cinema, theatre, universities and conferences
- Opportunities to attend a language school in France and stay with a host family (with support from the college)
- Mentoring secondary school pupils and participating in language‑related activities
- These experiences help develop language skills and cultural understanding.
Student quotes
‘’Studying A level French has been extremely rewarding and the communication skills that I have gained are invaluable! “
What our students say: ‘’ I love learning A-level French. The lessons are very interactive and the classroom environment is great. You get to immerse yourself in a new culture, with reading, tv and more.’’
