Foreign Languages - French
Curriculum intent
In learning to speak another language, pupils develop compassion towards those from different backgrounds, as well as the courage and ambition to go out into the world and communicate with confidence. Successfully communicating in another language builds self-esteem and helps pupils to see themselves as global citizens with a multilingual identity. At Christ Church Secondary Academy, we believe that every child deserves and can benefit from the opportunities that learning another language can bring. We aim to make languages an accessible and enjoyable subject for all pupils, no matter their background, prior attainment, or previous experience of learning languages.
Learning journey at KS3
You can download a copy of this curriculum overview using the link below:
CCSA French Learning Journey KS3
KS4 French Curriculum & Exam Information
Pearson Edexcel GCSE French
Full Course Title: Pearson Edexcel Level 1/ Level 2 GCSE (9-1) in French (1Fr1)
Exam board website and Specification link: GCSE French Specification 2024
Course overview: The Pearson Edexcel GCSE in French allows students to develop their ability to communicate in French in both speaking and writing. Students will develop the French language across a range of thematic contexts and develop a greater awareness of the culture of French-speaking communities and countries.
Themes covered:
Students will learn about the following themes:
My personal world
Lifestyle and wellbeing
My neighbourhood
Media and technology
Studying and my future
Travel and tourism
Sub-topics: Within the themes, students will apply specified vocabulary and grammar so that they are able to listen to, read, speak and write about the following subjects:
Why is studying French important?
The study of GCSE French broadens students’ knowledge and understanding of the French language and Francophone cultures that are different to their own. This liberates pupils from insularity and fosters a sense of curiosity and deeper understanding of the wider world. A high-quality languages education at Key Stage 4 enables pupils to express ideas, thoughts and opinions in a range of grammatical tenses therefore being able to understand and respond in both speech and writing, and converse with others in the French language.
Examinations: There are four GCSE examination papers:
Paper 1 – Speaking in French
Paper 2 – Listening and Understanding in French
Paper 3 – Reading and understanding in French
Paper 4 – Writing in French
Each paper is worth 25% of students’ overall mark and students will be entered for Foundation of Higher Tier across all four papers. GCSE French: Qualification at a glance
Recommended Revision Guide: Students are encouraged to purchase the GCSE French Revision Guide with CGP Revision Hub (for exams from 2026).
GCSE French Edexcel Revision Guide CGP
Future careers in Languages: Studying French helps students to build excellent written and verbal communication skills; skills that can be used beyond the classroom. There are many careers that students can go on to do after studying it such as becoming travel bloggers, flight attendants, translators, tour guides, teachers. marketing managers, sales executives, lawyers, journalists, screen writers, diplomats or international aid workers.
Learning journey at KS4
You can download a copy of this curriculum overview using the link below:
