Key Stage 3, GCSE & A-Level French Tutoring

Who teaches it

French is taught by Imogen, who will be spending the next academic year immersing herself in French language and culture whilst studying in Paris. Her relevant experience and GCSE and A-Level qualifications give her insight into how to combine exam technique with genuine understanding of the subject. Read more about Imogen and our approach →

What we cover

From Key Stage 3 (Years 7–9) through GCSE and A-Level, French is an incredibly interdisciplinary subject, with a huge range of skills being assessed.

• Speaking: this is often the area where people struggle or lack confidence the most. We focus on putting frequent practice at the forefront of our lessons, encouraging French communication whenever there is an opportunity. Learning the tips and tricks to achieve the desired grades is central — whilst not forgetting the joy of being able to speak a foreign language!
• Reading & listening: strategies for understanding high-level, authentic texts are accompanied by learning to recognise patterns to fully understand what examiners expect.
• Grammar: whilst often tedious and difficult, grammar is an unavoidable and vital part of getting a real, comfortable grasp of the language. Having always struggled with grammar herself, Imogen is armed with clear explanations and the ability to take a different approach to understanding until it sticks!
• Translation & writing: with foundations being built at GCSE and really expanded upon at A-Level, this can seem a daunting aspect. Understanding what exam boards expect, and curating a clear and reproducible essay technique at A-Level, is crucial and emphasised in lessons.

Our approach to French

In French, Imogen aims to draw on her own ongoing experiences of language learning to help others reach the same goals she once had. She recognises how tricky it can be to get the grades, but has always been motivated by a real love for her subject. Offering a relatable approach, teaching as someone who has been where you are, Imogen understands the techniques you need to be successful — and that those techniques will vary for each individual student. Creating an environment where failure and setbacks are permitted (and even encouraged!) is vital to language learning, and creating relationships with our students where this comes naturally is our central aim.