Beginners (Level 1)

Beginners classes are for people who have no prior knowledge of the language or who are happy to start all over again.

Post-beginners (Level 2)

Post-beginners classes will suit you if you already have some knowledge of the language.  You've probably reached level A1 or A2 in the European Language Portfolio (see below), studied the language to GCSE level, or already have completed a beginners course.

Intermediate (Level 3)

Those studying at Intermediate level will have a thorough grounding in the language, around levels B1 - B2 in the European Language Portfolio or AS level.

Advanced (Level 4)

To join an Advanced class, you'll need to have good knowledge of the language, of at least level B2 in the European Language Portfolio or A level.

At present we offer a Proficient level class in French only.  This will be suitable for those with post A level ability.

Before you register

We recommend, that before you register for a course, you take a look at the levels descriptions included in the European Language Portfolio Self-Assessment Grid.

Please note that not everyone in your class is likely to be at exactly the same level.  We will make all reasonable efforts to allocate you to a suitable class at an appropriate level, but we do reserve the right to determine the class to which a student is allocated and, where necessary, to include a range of abilities in a class.  It is always possible after registration for you to change to a group at a different level, provided that you discuss it with us and your tutor first.

One level is covered in each 18 week course. If you feel you are between levels it is possible to join in January and take the second half of the course only.