Our Programmes
French as a Foreign Language (FFL)
Achieve genuine cultural fluency in the heart of Normandy. Our action-oriented immersion programme transforms language learning into conversational confidence through meaningful experiences, intensive tuition, and life in a truly international community.
Overview
Achieve Cultural Fluency in the Heart of Normandy
Where authentic French cultural immersion meets contemporary pedagogy, École des Roches develops students who think in both languages — mobilising two cognitive and cultural universes, and moving with ease from one framework of thought to another.
Founded in 1899, our campus in Normandy combines 125 years of educational heritage with a contemporary approach — enhanced by our partnership with École Jeannine Manuel. With 240 students from 40 nations and a 4:1 student-teacher ratio, we maintain an intimate community where every student is known, supported, and challenged.
Unlike urban international schools, our countryside sanctuary — one hour from Paris — provides the space and calm for genuine reflection, creativity, and personal growth.
Why École des Roches for FFL?
What Sets Our Programme Apart
Our FFL programme is built on four pillars that distinguish it from conventional language courses — combining intensity, authenticity, academic continuity, and cultural depth.
Thoughtful Integration & Immersion
Our programme is built around four interlocking strands, each designed to
accelerate fluency through a different dimension of immersion and learning.
Cultural Workshops Include
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Ready to take the next step?
French Proficiency Levels (CEFR)
We assess and track student progress using the Common European Framework of Reference for Languages (CEFR/CECRL) — the European standard recognised by universities and employers worldwide. Students are placed in adapted groups from day one, ensuring balanced challenge with achievable success.
- Recognise and use simple words and phrases for specific purposes
- Introduce themselves, ask and answer basic questions
- Understand isolated phrases and common expressions
- Communicate during routine tasks requiring basic information exchange
- Understand the main points of clear standard input on familiar topics
- Deal with most travel situations in French-speaking areas
- Produce simple connected text on familiar subjects
- Understand complex texts including technical articles
- Communicate with spontaneity and fluency with native speakers
- Understand a wide range of long, complex texts with nuance
- Express fluently in social, professional, or academic contexts without effort
Programme Duration & Format
We accommodate diverse academic calendars and family needs — from a short intensive stay to a full academic year. Most families choose one of our three main options.
Seamless Progression After FFL
FFL Programme
Lycée Français / BFI
IB Diploma (IBDP)
University
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Ready to take the next step?
Where the World’s Brightest Futures Begin
Whether you are considering Collège, Lycée, the IB Diploma, or FFL, our admissions team is here to guide you through every stage of the process.
Recognition & Progress
Assessment & Academic Recognition
Every student’s progress is documented, celebrated, and recognised internationally. Our assessment framework is designed to build confidence and open doors.
Fees for short immersion blocks are quoted individually based on dates, duration, and available places. Contact admissions for availability and pricing.
Tuition Fees - French as a Foreign Language
5-day, all meals included
First year only
Semester fees include full boarding (5-day or 7-day), all meals, 25 hours/week of French tuition, academic integration, cultural excursions, and co-curricular activities.
Tuition Fees - International Baccalaureate
5-day, all meals included
First year only
Full-year fees align with standard boarding tuition. A registration fee applies in the first year. Contact admissions for a complete personalised fee schedule.
Tuition Fees - French as a Foreign Language
5-day, all meals included
First year only
Frequently Asked Questions
Your Questions
Answered
Choosing the right school is a big decision, and we know families want clarity before taking the next step. Our FAQs address the most common questions about admissions, academics, and boarding life — helping you feel confident in your choice.
Do I need to speak any French to enrol?
No prior French is required. We welcome complete beginners (A1) through to near-proficient speakers (B2+). Every student is assessed on arrival and placed in an appropriate group. Progress is rapid, measurable, and celebrated at every stage.
How many hours of French teaching per week?
FFL students receive 25 hours of French language instruction per week through our action-oriented methodology. This covers all four skills — listening, speaking, reading, and writing — delivered in small groups of 8–12 students, supported by cultural workshops in drama, music, phonetics, and civilisation.
Is the DELF exam included?
DELF preparation and examination entry is optional and available to all FFL students. The Diplôme d’Études en Langue Française (DELF) is internationally recognised and highly valued for university admission and global career opportunities. Our teachers provide targeted preparation for each level.
Are FFL students integrated with French students?
Yes — this is central to our approach. FFL students share boarding houses, meals, co-curricular activities, and daily life with their French and international peers. This integration provides constant, authentic French immersion beyond the classroom and is one of the key reasons our programme produces such rapid results.
What happens after the FFL programme?
From Grade 10 onwards, students who have completed the FFL programme may choose to continue at École des Roches on either the French Baccalauréat / BFI pathway or the International Baccalaureate Diploma Programme. Comprehensive academic transcripts are provided for students transferring to other institutions globally.
How do I start the application?
Begin by contacting Delphine Le Huerou, our Head of Admissions, at admissions@ecoledesroches.com or via the enquiry form on our website. We will discuss your child’s current French level, desired duration, and most suitable start date — then guide you through the application process step by step.
Real stories. Real impact
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Give Your Child the École des Roches Advantage
Take the Next Step Today
For over 120 years, École des Roches has shaped ambitious, globally minded students into future leaders. With world-class programmes, a vibrant boarding life, and a truly international community, your child’s journey starts here.
