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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.
Action-Oriented Methodology
Language learning is transformed from theoretical study into conversational confidence through real, meaningful experiences. Students learn by doing — not by memorising.
25 Hours of French Per Week
Intensive daily teaching across listening, speaking, reading, and writing — delivered in small groups of 8–12 students with exceptional individual attention at a 4:1 ratio.
A learning laboratory campus
Students share daily life, co- curricular activities, boarding, and meals with their French and international peers — creating constant, authentic immersion outside the classroom.
Growth Mindset Approach
Errors are expected and celebrated as essential steps in language acquisition. Progress is measured individually — not against a class ranking — building confidence and the desire to learn.
1899
Founded
50
Hectares campus
6:1
Student/Teacher
Paris
1hr by train
50+
Nationalities
How We Teach
Thoughtful Integration & Immersion
Our programme is built around four interlocking strands, each designed to
accelerate fluency through a different dimension of immersion and learning.
01
Intensive French Language Training
25 hours per week of action-oriented teaching, systematically developing listening, speaking, reading, and writing skills. Cultural workshops bring French language and civilisation to life through drama, music, phonetics, and civilisation studies.
02
Progressive Academic Integration
Students gradually integrate into mathematics, sciences, and physical education lessons alongside their French peers — ensuring no loss of skills in key academic subjects while building bilingual competency for success in France or internationally.
03
Cultural Immersion Curriculum
Full integration with French students in daily life and co-curricular activities, paired with monthly cultural excursions and regional trips across France — bringing classroom learning into lived experience.
04
Metacognitive Development
Students develop metacognitive abilities that transfer beyond French to all areas of academic and personal life — learning how to tackle challenging new skills, manage persistence, and build resilience through struggle.
Cultural Workshops Include
Get Started Today
Ready to take the next step?
All Levels Welcome
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.
Beginner
- Recognise and use simple words and phrases for specific purposes
- Introduce themselves, ask and answer basic questions
Elementary
- Understand isolated phrases and common expressions
- Communicate during routine tasks requiring basic information exchange
Intermediate
- 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
Advanced
- Understand complex texts including technical articles
- Communicate with spontaneity and fluency with native speakers
Proficient
- Understand a wide range of long, complex texts with nuance
- Express fluently in social, professional, or academic contexts without effort
Flexible to Your Calendar
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.
Short Immersion
Successive two-week periods
Ideal for students seeking an intensive taster of French immersion. Available as successive two-week blocks to accommodate school holidays and travel schedules.
From 2 weeks
Autumn Semester
14-week
Most popular choice
Our most popular option — 14 weeks of intensive immersion across the autumn term. A transformative experience that delivers significant measurable progress in French proficiency.
14 weeks
Full Semester
Spring or autumn
18 weeks of full academic integration. Students experience both classroom immersion and co-curricular life to a depth that produces lasting bilingual fluency and cultural confidence.
18 weeks
Full Academic Year
Maximum immersion
A full year at École des Roches. Students integrate fully into academic and boarding life, reaching advanced CEFR levels and qualifying for seamless progression to the IB or French Bac.
Full year
Seamless Progression After FFL
Entry
FFL Programme
A1 → B2 / C1
From Grade 10
Lycée Français / BFI
French Bac pathway
Alternative
IB Diploma (IBDP)
International pathway
Exit
University
France or global
From Grade 10, students who have completed the FFL programme may choose to integrate into the French national curriculum or the IB Diploma Programme — fully prepared for university success in France or internationally.
Get Started Today
Ready to take the next step?
Where the World’s Brightest Futures Begin
Whether you are considering International Baccalaureate, French Baccalaureate, Middle School, or French as a Foreign Language, our admissions team is here to guide you through every stage of the process.
50+ Nationalities
Global Alumni Network
Academic Excellence
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.
Initial Evaluation & Placement
Students test into the appropriate CEFR level on arrival, ensuring balanced challenge with achievable success from day one. Personalised learning pathways are created based on diagnostic assessment.
Formative Assessment
Regular evaluation focuses on individual progress and improvement rather than class comparison. Students develop self-assessment skills that foster academic autonomy and a lifelong love of learning.
Individual Progress Portfolio
Comprehensive documentation of cultural and linguistic development — including project work, cultural experiences, and reflective learning — demonstrating growth in both language and intercultural fluency.
Academic Transcripts
Full documentation ensures a smooth transition to the next educational stage, whether continuing at École des Roches or transferring to institutions globally. Our qualifications are internationally recognised.
Optional DELF Certification
Expert preparation for the internationally recognised Diplôme d'Études en Langue Française (DELF) — the gold standard for validating French proficiency for university admission and global career opportunities.
Optional Holiday Stays
During the four school breaks (October, Christmas, Winter, Easter), international excursions may be organised — past destinations have included Prague, Vienna, Budapest, Strasbourg, and Barcelona.
Tuition Fees - French as a Foreign Language (5-day)
🎓 Full Year
€41,580
📋 Semester
(18 weeks)
(18 weeks)
€22,450
📋 Short Stay
(per 2 week stay)
(per 2 week stay)
€3,200
Fees are reviewed annually and quoted in euros. For a full personalised fee schedule including all optional extras please contact our admissions team directly.
7-Day Boarding
From€51,480
7-day boarding includes all weekend activities and day trips except where noted
Tuition Fees - French as a Foreign Language (7-day)
🎓 Full Year
€51,480
📋 Semester
(18 weeks)
(18 weeks)
€27,800
📋 Short Stay
(per 2 week stay)
(per 2 week stay)
€3,950
Fees are reviewed annually and quoted in euros. For a full personalised fee schedule including all optional extras please contact our admissions team directly.
50 hectares
Campus
1 hour from Paris
By train
10,000-strong
Alumni network
50+
Nationalities
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 students from beginner level through to advanced proficiency.
How many hours of French teaching per week?
Students receive approximately 25 hours of French language instruction each week.
Is the DELF exam included?
DELF preparation and examination entry are available for students who wish to obtain internationally recognised French language certification.
Are FLE students integrated with French students?
Yes. FLE students share boarding houses, meals, co-curricular activities, and daily life with French and international students.
What happens after the FFL programme?
Students may continue into either the French Baccalaureate or IB Diploma pathway depending on their language progression and academic goals.
How do I start the application?
Families can contact the Admissions Office directly or complete an enquiry form online.
What ages are accepted into the FLE programme?
The programme is designed for secondary school students who wish to improve their French within a full boarding and immersive educational environment.
How quickly do students progress in French?
Progress varies depending on the student’s starting level and engagement, but immersion in French academic and boarding life significantly accelerates language development.
Is French spoken outside the classroom?
Yes. Students are immersed in French through boarding life, activities, excursions, and everyday interactions.
Can students prepare for long-term study in France?
Yes. The FLE programme is specifically designed to help students transition into French academic programmes and life in France.
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.
