French is introduced in Year 1 and is taught with a lively oral approach in Pre-Prep. The aim is to develop an ear for the language and take advantage of the ability of young children to mimic what they hear. From this, they begin to understand and reproduce vocabulary and expressions in an authentic accent.

In the Prep Department, the children learn to read and write in French, as well as continuing to expand their oral skills. Whilst maintaining the fun of the subject, they establish a soundly structured framework of elementary grammar.

They are taught with a variety of audio-visual methods using songs, games and computer technology and Promethean whiteboards.

Monica Hyde, French Subject Leader