An ability to speak French is an advantage in the international job market. A knowledge of French opens the doors of French companies in France and other French-speaking parts of the world (Canada, Switzerland, Belgium, and North and sub-Saharan Africa). The course is studied as a full A Level linear course (two years). Topics studied are similar to those touched on at GCSE but are studied in more depth. It also includes the study of two literary works comprising one film and one novel/ play/selection of poems and the development of independent research skills on a topic of personal interest. Students study technological and social change, looking at diversity and the benefits it brings. They will study highlights of French-speaking artistic culture, including franco- phone music and cinema, and learn about political engagement and who wields political power in the French-speaking world. Students also explore the influence of the past on present-day French-speaking communities. Throughout their studies, they will learn the language in the context of French-speaking countries and the issues and influences which have shaped them. Students will study texts and film and have the opportunity to carry out independent research on an area of their choice. Assessment tasks will be varied and cover listening, speaking, reading and writing skills. Students also attend a one-to-one conversation practice with a native speaker to help them prepare for the oral.