School of Languages and Area Studies (SLAS)

French Subject Knowledge Enhancement (SKE) Course 2013

** Applications now accepted **

What is the French Enhancement Course?

• An intensive 16 week course in French language and culture starting on Tuesday 7 May 2013 and ending on Friday 23 August 2013
• A two-week study visit to Rouen in France is included in the programme
• Progress recorded in spoken production, spoken interaction, reading, listening and writing using the European Language Portfolio
• Multimedia teaching using Sony Virtuoso language laboratories and the University of Portsmouth’s in-house virtual learning environment
• Cultural seminars from French lecturers at the University of Portsmouth
• Pastoral support with personal tutors and individual learning plans

Who is the French Enhancement Course aimed at?

The Enhancement Course in French has been designed to enable graduates who are already well-qualified practitioners of at least one foreign language to develop the confidence and expertise to teach French to pupils in Key Stage 3 (years 7-9 of secondary schooling), as a minimum requirement. Some might be able to teach to GCSE level and possibly beyond.

The course is designed to prepare you to commence a secondary Modern Foreign Language (MFL) teacher training course from September 2013 whether on a Postgraduate Certificate of Education (PGCE) course, via the Schools Initial Teacher Training (SCITT) or on a School Direct Training Programme.

To participate in the Enhancement Course you must have a conditional offer of a place on your chosen route to QTS. You should do this by applying to an ITT course through the GTTR (or to the Teaching Agency if you are applying for a School Direct programme). You should indicate your willingness to attend the French Enhancement Course, if required, on your application form. If your application for the French Enhancement Course is considered suitable, the ITT provider will refer you to the University of Portsmouth.

For further information on how to apply for a PGCE course or alternative ITT route, please visit:

• The Graduate Teacher Training Agency website: www.gttr.ac.uk
• The Teaching Agency at the Department for Education: www.education.gov.uk/get-into-teaching

Do I have to pay any fees for the French Enhancement Course?

The 2013 course is funded by the Teaching Agency and there are no fees for UK and EU residents who have a place on an Initial Teacher Training course that is funded by the Teaching Agency. The Teaching Agency will provide a bursary of £2400 (equivalent to £150 per week) for trainees whose degree classification is 2:2 or above (or equivalent).

Why study French at the University of Portsmouth?

The School of Languages and Area Studies at the University of Portsmouth has been selected by the Teaching Agency at the Department for Education to deliver the course based on its experience and expertise in delivering short intensive language courses.

In the 2011 National Students Survey, the University of Portsmouth was rated joint top (97%) in England for overall satisfaction in our teaching of European languages. Our French Enhancement course has received very positive appraisals from both Ofsted and the university’s external moderator, who has described the teaching and learning experience as of a very high standard.

Is the French Enhancement Course full time?

Yes. Classes at the University of Portsmouth will start at 10am and finish at 3pm, Monday to Friday (with an hour’s break for lunch). In addition, you will be set tasks and assignments to complete outside of class times. The timetable in France will be different, but will occupy every day.

Does the one course fit all levels of ability?

Yes: 

• Those students who have no prior knowledge or study of French will embark on an ab initio course from Tuesday 7 May – Friday 17 May 2013. As a beginner you will have taught classes of intensive study which will enable you to join the main course on Monday 20 May.
• Those who already have some knowledge or study of French to GCSE level will spend 10 days from Tuesday 7 May – Friday 17 May in a secondary school, working alongside pupils and teachers, observing them in the languages classroom teaching and learning.
• All participants then join the main course from Monday 20 May – Friday 23 August. Tutorials, self-supported study and taught sessions are differentiated according to your ability.

How do you assess applicants’ knowledge of French before the course starts?

We establish your personal French language needs at a Needs Analysis Day held at the University of Portsmouth. You have a choice of three dates on which you can attend the Needs Analysis Day:

• EITHER: Thursday 14 February 2013
• OR: Thursday 7 March 2013
• OR: Thursday 21 March 2013

How do I apply for the French Enhancement Course?

Even if you are still waiting for your PGCE / SCITT / School Direct interview or for confirmation of your ITT course place, you can still apply for the French Enhancement Course. In fact, we would encourage you to do so. Application forms for the Enhancement Course can be downloaded here: Subject Knowledge Enhancement application form.