Coulsdon College French A Level students have recently been practising their French speaking skills at home and abroad.  In early March, they attended Portsmouth University to find out more about Translation courses.  There were interactive taster sessions which the students got involved in, encouraging them to try their hand at translating and interpreting in French.  There was also a talk from a previous student who is currently using his language skills to work for the European Commission.  “This was a great opportunity for us to get a better understanding of what courses are available,” said Bianca Magalhaes, “and the type of career opportunities that are available to us after studying languages.”

More recently the same students were offered the opportunity of visiting France and staying with host families in Montpellier, totally immersing themselves in the French language and culture.  They attended French lessons in the morning, revising grammar and vocabulary, followed by various fun activities in the afternoon.  The visit was timely as students will be taking their A Level oral exams after the Easter holidays.  Vanina Hansel enjoyed her time in France, “It was great to be able to practise our speaking skills so intensively.  We all improved a lot and hopefully that will show in our results next term.”