French A Level (Strode)

Course Type
School Leavers
Subject Area
A Levels, Languages
Location
Strode College
Start date
02/09/2026

Course Overview

On this course not only will you build on your previous study and develop your listening, reading, speaking and writing skills gained at GCSE, but also you will develop your knowledge and cultural understanding of France and the French-speaking world.

In your first year, you watch and study a French film, while in your second year you will study a novel in the target language and choose an area of personal interest to research and present during your speaking exam. Your chosen topic should relate to a country or communities where French is spoken and offers you the opportunity to deepen your cultural awareness.

Topics may include:

  • Recent changes in family structures, marriage, and divorce
  • Education systems and the world of work
  • Various types of francophone music over the last few decades
  • The changing nature and role of the media
  • Festivals and traditions
  • Benefits and challenges relating to immigration and integration
  • The recent rise of the far-right
  • WW2: life in occupied France, the Vichy regime, and the Resistance.

Assessment Methods

You will be assessed through listening, reading, writing and speaking examinations, with regular internal assessment taking place as the course unfolds.

Your final A Level exam will be made up of two exam papers and one speaking test covering the entire programme.

Progression Options

The large majority of our students go on to university with many studying French combined with another subject. Some choose to take a gap year in a French-speaking country before heading to university, others might choose a university course that includes a year or a semester abroad.

You could even decide to work and live in France or a French-speaking country to practise and improve your language skills further.

Entry Requirements

You will need 5 GCSEs in the 9 to 4 range. You will also need a grade 5 or above in French GCSE or equivalent proven linguistic ability.

Frequently Asked Questions

We aim to offer a careers service that is accessible to everyone. We will seek to equip all our students with the skills and knowledge that will enable them to operate confidently, effectively, and independently in life and work. All students have the opportunity to meet with a Careers Advisor for 1:1 career support.