Head of Department

Mrs V Lethbridge, BA, PGCE

Statement of Intent

Foreign languages are an important part of cultural and vocational education in Europe and around the world. In the Languages department at DHSG, we aim to provide our students with the skills to communicate effectively in a variety of languages (French, Spanish, German, Mandarin Chinese, Latin) and with a sympathetic attitude to and deeper understanding of the relevant cultures in the language of study. In the teaching of specific languages, we endeavour to foster a language awareness and an improved understanding of English and to develop language learning skills which will serve as a valuable basis for the acquisition of skills in other foreign languages which students may wish to learn later in their careers.

Language lessons focus on developing students’ ability to engage in spontaneous talk and practise transferable thinking skills. Above all, as committed and enthusiastic language learners ourselves, we wish to pass on a love of languages and encourage students to embrace language learning as a vital life skill.

“He who knows no foreign language, knows nothing of his own” Goethe

“ If you talk to a man in a language he understands, that goes to his head; if you talk to a man in his own language, that goes to his heart.” Nelson Mandela.

Aims of the department:

• to produce enthusiastic, competent linguists who are confident of their ability, willing to take risks in less familiar situations;
• to develop the students’ ability to engage in spontaneous talk, uninhibited by a strive for perfection;
• to provide a sense of challenge in the language learning activities and overcome the fear of failure;
• to encourage students to become adaptable and open to new opportunities;
• to help students to develop transferable thinking skills;
• to embrace language learning and the ability to use other languages as a life skill;
• to encourage a sense of belonging to a global community;
• to develop a cultural awareness of other nationalities.

A Level Course Outline

This course aims to give candidates an excellent grounding in all aspects of the French language with the opportunity to develop ability and confidence in the four skill areas of speaking, listening, reading and writing. Furthermore, the specification aims to stimulate greater cultural awareness of France and the Francophone world.

Higher Education and Career Opportunities

A level French is a valuable asset for a variety of degrees and career areas including Law, Accountancy, Business, Media and Teaching. Most French degrees involve a year abroad in France or a French-speaking country.

Course Content