Course Full Title: A Level French
Exam Board: AQA
Specification Code: 7652
Why study a language?
Thinking about your options for next year? Studying a language at A Level opens doors to exciting opportunities — and it’s more than just learning vocabulary and grammar. Here at Oriel, our language courses are about exploring new cultures, sharing ideas, and gaining skills that will last a lifetime. You are effectively studying a humanities subject – just in another language!
In our lessons, you won’t just sit and listen — you’ll take part in debates, discuss current events, watch films, read articles, and even create your own presentations. You will learn to express opinions confidently, analyse complex ideas, and think critically — all through another language. Lessons are interactive and challenging, but also fun and engaging.
Teachers expect commitment, curiosity, and a willingness to take risks with your language. Regular practice, homework, and class participation are key to success. In return, you’ll develop skills that go far beyond the classroom: problem-solving, resilience, and strong communication — all qualities that universities and employers love.
Whether you dream of a career in business, law, medicine, travel, politics, journalism, or the arts, studying a language will give you a head start. At Oriel, we’ll support you every step of the way, helping you become confident, capable, and ready for the global world.
Why study French?
French is one of the most widely spoken languages in the world, used across Europe, Africa, North America and the Caribbean. As an international language of business, diplomacy, culture and education, French offers students a unique opportunity to communicate with millions of people across the globe.
Studying French at A Level is about much more than learning a language. It develops valuable skills in communication, critical thinking, analysis and problem-solving. Universities and employers consistently value linguists because they are adaptable, culturally aware and confident communicators. French combines particularly well with subjects such as Business, Law, Politics, History, English, Economics and International Relations.
“To have another language is to possess a second soul.” – Charlemagne
What will I study?
A Level French builds on the skills developed at GCSE and explores contemporary French society, culture and current affairs through authentic texts, films and discussion.
Topics include:
- Family and changing relationships
- Diversity and multicultural society
- The role of voluntary work
- The impact of technology
- Heritage and French culture
- Immigration and integration
- Politics and political engagement among young people
Students will also study two key works:
- Film: Au Revoir les Enfants
- Literary text: No et Moi
Throughout the course, you will develop advanced speaking, listening, reading and writing skills and learn to discuss complex issues confidently in French. In Year 13 you will complete an independent research project on an area of personal interest related to the French-speaking world.
What makes a successful French student?
Successful linguists are curious about the world around them and enjoy exploring different cultures, ideas and perspectives. They are willing to communicate, take risks and learn from mistakes.
You should be prepared to develop your vocabulary independently, engage with authentic materials and contribute actively to discussions. Organisation, resilience and a genuine interest in language and culture are important qualities, but enthusiasm and commitment are often the biggest predictors of success.
Where could the study of French take me?
French is a highly respected A Level that opens doors to a wide range of university courses and careers.
Many students choose to study languages at university, either on their own or alongside another subject. Popular combinations include:
- French and Law
- French and Business Management
- French and International Relations
- French and Politics
- French and Economics
- French and History
Language graduates are highly sought after in areas such as international business, marketing, law, diplomacy, journalism, teaching, translation, tourism and government services. In an increasingly interconnected world, the ability to communicate effectively in another language gives students a significant advantage and can create opportunities for travel, study and work both in the UK and internationally.
How will I be assessed?
- Paper 1: Listening, Reading & Writing – 50%
- Paper 2: Writing on Film and Literature – 20%
- Paper 3: Speaking exam – 30%
What are the entrance requirements?
- Grade 6 or above in French
- 5 or more grades 5-9; including equivalents across at least 5 subjects
- Maths and English Language Grade 4 or above
- Average GCSE GRADE of at least 4.0 (average of ALL GCSE full courses taken)