French is a well liked and successful language that enjoys a reputation for achieving high examination results at Bryn Hafren.

During the recent inspection the level of teaching and learning was rated as good.

The French Department brings the French language and culture to life through a link with a French school. Pupils in Key Stage four have a French penfriend and in February 2007 they had the opportunity to meet each other when the fifty French students accompanied them to lessons. There was a party at lunchtime and ice breaker activities during French lessons. All the pupils and some lucky year nine pupils spent the evening bowling in Cardiff. Plans for the return exchange are underway for February 2008.

Pupils also learn about the culture of some of the other 68 French speaking countries. For example French lessons on Red Nose Day allow pupils to discover the life of in some of the poor French speaking African countries.

At other times of the year pupils also complete various culture worksheets and take part in culture based competitions and can attend the lunchtime language club to further develop their interest in French and France.

Bryn Hafren pupils with their French penfriends after an evening of bowling February 2007

Ice breaker activity during the French exchange

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