French

Our language classes are divided into Stages. Stage one is designed for real beginners whilst stage six and seven are for advanced learners. Check out the entry requirements to determine which stage is most appropriate for you. Some languages are available across levels in terms of the Common European Framework of Reference for Languages (CEFR). This allows students to work towards UNILANG recognition, which is highly recognised by employers. For more information, see our 'Awards' section.

French stage 1

This course is suitable for real beginner learners of French with virtually no prior knowledge of the language.During the course you’ll learn how to talk about basic personal details, and your work or studies. You’ll learn how to talk about daily routines and how to arrange meetings.

At the end of the course, you’ll have some elementary appreciation of French grammar and structures and you’ll be able to give basic information about yourself, ask for directions and arrange travel.You’ll be able to communicate at a basic level when shopping and when you are in restaurants and in hotels.

French stage 2

This course is suitable for beginner learners of French with some knowledge of the language, equivalent to stage 1 (for example GCSE grade B or C).

During the course you’ll learn about how to give information about self and others, asking questions and interviewing, giving and understanding information about holidays, vacation jobs, recounting a series of events, expressing opinions, understanding/giving descriptions of people and places

At the end of the course, you’ll have deepened your appreciation of French grammar and structures at an elementary level and you will be able to make comparisons, and talk about recent and past events.

French stage 3

French stage 3 is the right stage for you if you’ve successfully completed French stage 2 or equivalent, e.g. GCSE grade A.

During the course you’ll study topics relating for example to the media, culture, fitness and tourism.

At the end of the course, you’ll be able to express/understand opinions for example about where you live, which media you use, how you keep fit or describe holiday experiences.

French stage 4

French stage 4 is the right stage for you if you’ve successfully completed French stage 3 or equivalent (e.g. A level grade D or E).

During the course you’ll study topics relating, for example, to environmental issues, immigration and equal opportunities, poverty and unemployment, crime and new technology.

At the end of the course, you’ll be able to talk for example about events in the past and future as well as your intentions and wishes using the conditional tense.

French stage 5

French stage 5 is the right stage for you if you’ve successfully completed French stage 4 or equivalent (e.g. A level grade A, B, or C).

We currently use authentic materials (news reports, documentaries, podcasts and satirical cartoons) on current affairs. Topic areas typically include the news, politics and social issues.

At the end of the course, you’ll be able, for example, to summarise written and spoken texts, as well as discuss ideas and give your opinion.

French stage 6

French stage 6 is the right stage for you if you’ve successfully completed French stage 5 or equivalent (e.g. an A level French plus at least one further year of study or equivalent).

We currently use authentic materials (news reports, editorials, podcasts and films) on current affairs and French society. Typical current issues may be cultural differences, illegal immigration, globalisation or gender equality.

At the end of the course, you’ll be able, for example, to summarise extended written and spoken texts, distinguish and use various language registers, as well as discuss and debate complex ideas.

French stage 7

French stage 7 is the right stage for you if you have successfully completed French stage 6 or equivalent (e.g. an A level German plus at least one further year of study or in-country experience of the language or equivalent).

Applicants for stage 7 must have prior approval from the Course Tutor or Course Administrator.