At S Anselm's we acknowledge the importance of learning a modern foreign language from an early age and so language learning starts at the age of three in the Nursery. The weekly lessons continue throughout the pre-prep and are extended to two weekly lessons by the time the children reach Transition. By the time they reach the 5th Year they have five language lessons a week.
There is much emphasis on the speaking and listening sides of the language and children will be listening to French spoken at near native speed by the time they leave the school. However, the written side of the language is not forgotten and, depending on the capabilities of the class, grammar is seen as an important part of learning, helping the children to produce coherent and accurate French.
Most children will sit CE to their chosen senior school. The top set will usually take the appropriate scholarship exam, and there are a handful of children with particular language difficulties who may not continue with their language studies beyond the 2nd Year.
The main course followed is Encore Tricolore, which is colourful and modern without losing sight of the rigour necessary for good language learning. Pre-Prep and Transition classes follow La Jolie Ronde.
Once a year the 4th Year spends a whole school week in France at a language centre (currently in Burgundy). Here there is a varied mix of formal language learning coupled with exciting afternoon activities and enjoyable trips out. For many it is their first chance to experience a different culture without their parents. Instead they do this in the company of their school friends, which all have found to be a very enjoyable and rewarding experience.