Year 9 visit to the BFI Southbank

On Tuesday 27 January some of our Year 9 students enjoyed an enriching visit to the BFI Southbank centre, as part of their French studies, combining language learning with an exploration of France’s history during the Second World War. The trip gave students the opportunity to watch a French-language film, “Le Voyage de Fanny”, set in wartime France, helping to bring key historical events to life while exposing them to authentic spoken French.

In the morning students learnt language to analyse clips and the main themes of the film. They received a lecture-style experience amongst other schools the main theatre. By hearing the language used in a real cultural context, students were able to develop their listening skills and deepen their understanding of pronunciation, vocabulary, and expression beyond the classroom. The film also prompted thoughtful discussion about life in France during the occupation, resistance movements, and the impact of war on everyday citizens, supporting their wider learning in history.

Our Year 9 were absolutely brilliant in sustaining focus for such a complex topic, and all in a foreign language. In the afternoon our students watched the full film in French and they were highly engaged throughout the experience, showing maturity in their responses to the sensitive themes explored. The visit demonstrated how language and history are closely linked, allowing students to see how cultural experiences can enhance learning and understanding.

It was a fantastic day out to the South Bank, despite the January weather!

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