Dear Parents and Carers,
We are writing to inform you that the final GCSE French speaking examinations will take place week commencing Monday 20th April 2026. Students will receive their individual time slots nearer the date.
The speaking exam is worth 25% of the final GCSE grade. Under the new specification, there is a strong emphasis on spontaneous communication, meaning students cannot memorise set answers and must respond naturally within their assigned thematic context.
Importantly, students now have the significant advantage of knowing their thematic context approximately four weeks in advance. This gives them valuable time to prepare thoroughly, and we strongly encourage students to make full use of this by practising both written and spoken responses to key question types (available on Google Classroom) within their theme and any additional relevant areas they wish to prepare.
To support effective revision at home, students should focus on:
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Practising speaking responses out loud (short, regular practice is most effective)
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Answering key question types in full sentences, including opinions and reasons
- Using past, present and future time frames
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Applying structures practised in class, including giving advantages and disadvantages and extending answers with detail
Students have now been informed of their thematic context, which will form the basis of both the picture task and broader conversation.
We will also be running an Easter revision session to support speaking preparation, including preparation time practice and one-to-one speaking with teachers:
Friday 10th April 2026
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10:00–12:00 (Foundation tier)
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12:00–14:00 (Higher tier)
Students should confirm attendance via this
Google Form so that sessions can be organised appropriately.
If you have any questions, please do not hesitate to contact us.
Yours faithfully,
Sarah Swinden & Hannah Kelly
Heads of Modern Foreign Languages