Teacher in Charge: Miss A. Kerbellec.
Entry CriteriaYear 11 French is an open entry course.
Language learning at Year 11 will be a mana-enhancing experience that will allow you to access the language and culture of France, as well as developing your awareness and connections to others along the way. You will have opportunities to apply these skills with our sister schools in France through virtual exchange. Learning a language will broaden your career horizons and allow you to work anywhere in the world with the skills you have developed through your language learning adventure at Westlake.
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Common Q&A
Q: Why should I take French?
A: Learn in a Fun, Social & Supportive Way
French class is interactive and varied—featuring games, videos, conversations, and cultural experiences. Whether you’re outgoing or more reserved, you’ll build confidence and friendships in a low-pressure, engaging environment.
• Unlock High-Paying Careers in NZ and Overseas
Language skills are a major asset in industries like tech, healthcare, education, defence, aviation, and international business—giving you a competitive edge and often leading to better pay.
• Stand Out in Uni, Apprenticeships & Job Applications
Being bilingual shows you're disciplined, globally aware, and adaptable—qualities that impress employers, scholarship panels, and selectors.
• Boost Your Brainpower & School Performance
Learning a language sharpens memory, focus, and problem-solving—helping you improve in other subjects like Maths, English, and Science.
• Access Scholarships, Travel & Global Opportunities
Languages open doors to fully funded exchanges, uni scholarships, and travel adventures—saving money and building unforgettable experiences.
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Q: I didn't take French in Year 10. Can I still take 11FRE?
A: Yes. 11FRE is an open entry course. You will be supported by the teacher to catch up on the Year 10 contents at the beginning of the year, but you will need to be committed to putting the extra hours outside of class to keep up with the lesson pace. If you want to select 11FRE as a beginner, the best option is to see Miss Kerbellec in L block office to receive more information and resources to help you prepare.
Q: What do the assessments look like for this course?
A: You have two in-class assessments and two formal exams.
Assessment 1 (in-class): Write short piece(s) of writing in French with resources.
Assessment 2 (formal exam): Listen / Read passages in French and answer the questions in English.
Assessment 3 (in-class): Have conversations using simple spoken French.
Assessment 4 (formal exam): Listen / Read passages in French and answer the questions in English.
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Q: What topics are covered in this course?
A: Whakawhanaungatanga – Maintaining a sense of unity, belonging and cohesion- SCHOOL LIFE
Ako- Learning from each other- FREE TIME
Hauora- My well-being- HEALTH
Whai whakaaro- Being thoughtful- HOLIDAYS
Language and cultural exchange with sister schools in French through live zoom sessions, online and offline pen pals.
Food tasting opportunities with bakery days
One on one conversation opportunities each week with our French language assistant
Term 1
School
Term 2
My free time
Term 3
Study of the movie Intouchables
Term 4
New Caledonia and learning the practical language necessary for traveling to a French speaking country
As this course makes extensive use of digital learning and material it is expected that you will have a laptop or other suitable learning device available for each class when required. $22 course fee for cultural activities and Education Perfect.
Course selection does not guarantee a course will be available or that you have approval to take a course. Final course confirmation is in January and depends on your final results and in rare cases, staff availability.