The following article comes from Julie Sutcliffe, Education Development Lead at the Global School Alliance.
My French teacher changed my life!!
At secondary school, my French teacher was called Madame Lamisère. She was Scottish…but she had married a Frenchman and to me that was the most amazing thing ever!! From that moment on, I was hooked. I fell in love with French, the language the culture, the people, and this love has shaped my life and career ever since. I went on to study other languages as well, German, Spanish, a little Italian, now Portuguese on Duolingo!! I studied languages at university, lived in France for my year abroad, and for over 30 I have taught French and Spanish passionately to young people, hoping in some small way to share my passion and my love for all things francophone!
So today, on international Francophonie Day, I want to celebrate the linguistic and cultural significance of the wonderful French language.
In our increasingly globalized world, learning a new language is more than just an academic exercise—it is an investment in personal and professional growth. French, as one of the most widely spoken languages in the world, offers numerous cognitive, social, and career benefits.
Studying French can significantly boost students’ literacy skills. As a Romance language, French shares Latin roots with English, helping learners expand their vocabulary and develop a better understanding of word structures. Additionally, studying French grammar, syntax, and sentence formation strengthens overall language skills, which translates into improved reading comprehension and writing abilities in both French and English.
Beyond literacy, learning French helps to develop crucial personal skills such as cognitive flexibility. Problem-solving is boosted, as switching between languages strengthens mental agility. Learning a new language requires analysing patterns, structures, and meanings, which sharpens analytical and critical thinking skills. Understanding French culture fosters empathy and open-mindedness, helping individuals appreciate diverse perspectives and traditions.
English is no longer “enough”! As the world becomes more interconnected, a second language will provide advantages in various professional and social settings. French is the official language of major international organizations such as the United Nations, the European Union, and the International Red Cross. Mastery of French opens doors to global job opportunities in diplomacy, business, and academia. With over 300 million French speakers worldwide, knowledge and understanding of the language enriches travel experiences by facilitating deeper engagement with locals.
Learning French is a transformative experience that enhances literacy, sharpens personal skills, and equips learners for success in the 21st century. Whether for academic growth, professional advancement, or cultural enrichment, the ability to speak French is a gateway to new opportunities and a deeper understanding of the world. And if nothing else, you might just meet your future partner!!!
Establish links with a French-speaking partner school for your language learners
What better way to celebrate Francophonie Day than by linking your school with a French-speaking partner school? Get in touch to find out how the Global School Alliance can support you in creating meaningful, real-world language learning experiences that go beyond the classroom: https://www.globalschoolalliance.com/find-a-partner-school/.
Author
Julie Sutcliffe, Education Development Lead (MFL)
Julie has over 30 years of experience in the classroom, over 20 of which were in middle and senior leadership, and more recently as a National Lead Practitioner for MFL with a large multi-academy trust where she provided bespoke training and support, as well as delivering regular CPD sessions to over 30 schools. The support she provides is therefore one rooted in practical expertise, yet forward-thinking and committed to empowering educators and students, opening
