Pupils study French because of the strong historical and cultural ties which exist between the nations of England and France.
Pupils learn the basic structure of the language, develop their listening, reading and memory skills and improve the accuracy of their speaking and writing. By the end of their time at St Paul’s Juniors, pupils have laid excellent foundations for the study of any of the many modern foreign languages offered at St Paul鈥檚.
Three full-time French teachers encourage the pupils to develop their language skills and improve their fluency. Conversation clubs, occasionally run by members of the Department and bilingual Paulines, further enhance articulacy and expression.
In the First Years we focus on oral work, with learning based around fun games and activities. From the Lower Second to Upper Third Years, pupils learn the language more formally. They build up a wide vocabulary which allows them to communicate with greater spontaneity and independence. Interactive language exercises are fully integrated in the curriculum. Highlights in the calendar include a French play, workshops and the 鈥減etit d茅jeuner fran莽ais鈥.
Clubs and Enrichment
There are clubs such as French Games Club and an open French Clinic session every week when boys can get help with their French studies if they wish to.