European Section

The European Section at Newpark is open to any student who has a French parent, guardian or French family ties, or a strong interest in French culture and language. It is also open to any student who shows significant ability in the language.

The European Section gives students the opportunity to learn French at the highest level possible and to develop their reading, speaking, listening and writing skills through the teaching of French by native French speakers.

Teachers use authentic materials and resources to give students a vivid view of French life. Being immersed in a French environment, students gain linguistic knowledge together with a strong sense of Europe and the world beyond Ireland.

In 1^st Year students start corresponding through letters, emails and story-writing with Bellevue school in Lyon in preparation for the 2^nd Year exchange.  This is the main extra-curricular experience of the Junior Cycle. It takes place annually in 2^nd Year.

Each year, “French Theatre for School”, a professional company, visits Newpark. Students from the Junior and Senior Cycles enjoy studying, viewing and participating in these plays.

Through learning the “fiche technique”, students work at French craft throughout the year. Students also publish their own newspaper in French at regular intervals. Students also acquire knowledge on French cuisine and French history. Each student holds a language “passport” which summarises the owner’s learning experience and language qualifications. It forms a record of learning and intercultural experience.

Every year the European Section is involved in several competitions organised by the cultural service of the French Embassy.

• Brochure Section Europeenne