One of the many things I want to do in life is to learn French. I am now almost fluent in talking French and am still studying it. Although I intend to study until I reach fluency level certification, I feel I have enough knowledge to finally cross this off my list.

I have studied French since the start of comp school in 2007 and gained a grade B at GCSE level.

In summer 2006, I worked in France as an au pair/teaching English. Although this was not the best experience and I definately wouldn't do it again, I am glad I did it. It massivly improved my French. I was lliving in a home with a family and taught English to a 13 year old girl, Elvire, and a 17 year old boy, Guillaume. This was a very difficult task as the youngest girl simply didn't want to learn English and she made my life VERY difficult. Looking back, I don't blame her. I wouldn't like somebody to move into my home and force eme to do something I didn't want to do, especially in my school holidays.

Over the past year I have matured massivly and now realise that the girl just wanted to have fun, however, at the time I resented her for the difficult time she gave me. I wish I could see then what I see now and I would have handled the situation alot differently. I would definately of been more of her friend rather than her teacher and tried to make it more fun. It was a huge learing curve and a good experience of French cuture though.

I have also had the priveledge of teaching French in school to a class of reception children in my second placement at university. Although this was very basic, it was fun, and the children enjoyed it. I will definately continue to do this into my careers as it is so important to learn a foreign language at a young age. I know how much I disliked it in comp and didn't pay attention, so it is best to learn whilst the children are still young and interested!