The French education system recognizes the importance of language proficiency in an increasingly interconnected world and aims to equip students with the necessary language skills and intercultural competence to thrive in a global context.
As such, learning foreign languages is considered an important component of our education, and language study is incorporated into the curriculum at various stages.
In Maternelle (Kindergarten), our students learn French and English. Starting from CP of École Primaire (grade 1 of Primary School), our students begin learning Kurdish in addition to French and English. In Grade 4, they begin learning Arabic in addition to the existing languages taught.
Language learning continues throughout Collège (middle school) and Lycée (high school):
- Students with an Iraqi nationality continue learning French, English, Kurdish and Arabic;
- Non-Iraqi students continue learning French and English, and can elect to continue with Arabic or start Spanish language classes.
Within the curriculum, language education focuses on developing language proficiency in reading, writing, listening, and speaking. There is an emphasis on grammar, vocabulary, pronunciation, and cultural aspects of the target language. Language instruction is designed to foster communication skills and intercultural understanding.
In order to evaluate our students’ language proficiency and track their progress, they participate in the following language proficiency exams:
DELF: All our students, from Grade 1 to Grade 12 write the DELF (Diplôme d’études en langue française) exam. This exam is internationally recognized and provides official certification of language proficiency in French. It assesses a learner’s ability to use French in everyday situations and evaluates their listening, speaking, reading, and writing skills. The exam encourages young learners to develop their language abilities, enhance their academic and career prospects, and foster a deeper appreciation for the French language and culture. The DELF diploma, obtained after successful completion of the exam, is an internationally recognized French language certification. It is widely accepted by educational institutions, employers, governments and organizations as proof of French language skills.
IELTS: Our high school students are prepared to write the IELTS (International English Language Testing System) exam. It is a standardized test designed to assess the English language proficiency of non-native English speakers who plan to study, work, or migrate to English-speaking countries.