Dear Parents and Carers,
We are writing to inform you that the mock GCSE French speaking examinations will take place week commencing Monday 19th January 2026. Each student will receive their individual time slot nearer the date.
As part of the new GCSE French specification being introduced nationally, the speaking exam places a strong emphasis on spontaneous communication. This means that students are not permitted to prepare or memorise a list of set answers. Instead, they must respond naturally to questions within their chosen thematic context. Your child has already selected their preferred theme, from the two allowed options, and has been given clear guidance in lessons about the types of questions they may encounter.
All revision materials, including example question styles and strategies for producing strong spoken answers, are available on Google Classroom. In addition, a paper support pack will be provided to all students before the Christmas break to aid and support revision at home over the holiday period.
To prepare effectively, students should now focus on:
- Speaking aloud regularly at home to build confidence and fluency
- Giving fully developed answers, including:
- Opinions with reasons
- References to past and present events
- Future plans
- Covering all relevant subtopics within their chosen thematic context
- Using the speaking strategies practised in lessons, many of which have already supported their success in the recent writing mock examination
Although students cannot submit written answers or prepare a fixed script, regular spoken practice, even brief, daily, verbal rehearsal, has a significant impact. Even if you do not speak French, encouraging your child to speak aloud or explain in English what they plan to mention can be extremely helpful.
To provide additional support, Friday after-school MFL enrichment sessions will continue throughout the run-up to the exams and we strongly encourage students to attend.
This mock is an important opportunity for students to experience the new exam format under realistic conditions and to build confidence ahead of the real GCSE speaking examinations later in the year. This speaking element of the GCSE is worth 25% of the final grade.
If you have any questions, please do not hesitate to contact us.
Yours faithfully,
Sarah Swinden & Hannah Kelly
Heads of Modern Foreign Languages