Question 1

Who can attend PEK?

Accepted Answer

Our classes are for bilingual or French-speaking children aged 3 to 16 who have at least one francophone parent or carer.

Children must already understand spoken French, even if they don’t always speak it fluently.

We are part of the FLAM (Français Langue Maternelle) network — we do not offer French as a foreign language (FLE).

Question 2

When can I enrol my child?

Accepted Answer

We accept new pupils twice a year, in:
- September 
- January

This allows each child to settle in with their group and follow the curriculum smoothly.

Free taster sessions are available only during these enrolment periods.

Question 3

What if I miss the enrolment window?

Accepted Answer

No worries — you can join our waiting list at any time. We’ll contact you when a place becomes available in the right class for your child.

Question 4

How much does it cost?

Accepted Answer

We charge a £57 membership for the year (for the family) and tuition fees per child. 
£400 for 1 child 
£710 for 2 children
£820 for 3 children

The Point-Virgule method is extra in Écureuils, Grenouilles et Marmottes classes.

Find out more here.

Question 5

What happens during a typical class?

Accepted Answer

Each Saturday includes a mix of:
reading and writing activities
conversation and speaking practice 
songs, cultural topics, and creative projects

We follow a full immersion model — pas d’anglais en classe — to help children gain fluency and confidence naturally.
There is a 15 mins break half-way, always outside. Remember to pack weather appropriate clothing and a snack (but nothing with nuts!)

Question 6

What if my child understands French but prefers speaking English?

Accepted Answer

That’s very common! Many of our pupils start that way.
Through encouragement and routine, they gradually build confidence to speak more and more en français. We meet each child where they are, and adapt our teaching accordingly.

Question 7

Do you help with GCSE or A-level French?

Accepted Answer

Yes! Our Renards class (ages 12–16) offers support with:
GCSE and A-level preparation
exam techniques
vocabulary and grammar revision
oral practice 
dictée

Taught by an experienced French teacher who fully understand the UK exam system.

Question 8

Can I support my child’s learning at home?

Accepted Answer

Absolutely! And we fully encourage this. From time to time, expect teachers to give homework to do at home. 
In our Écureuils, Grenouilles and Marmottes classes, we use the Point-Virgule method, developed for Saturday French schools like ours, which allows parents to revisit grammar and key concepts at home.
It’s a great way to reinforce their French between Saturdays. We all know être et avoir can be very tricky!

Question 9

Are your teachers qualified?

Accepted Answer

Yes. We are very proud of our teaching team. They are:
Native French speakers
Experienced in bilingual or FLAM teaching
DBS checked
We also have classroom assistants to support larger classes

Question 10

Can I volunteer or join the committee?

Accepted Answer

Yes please! We always welcome help — with admin, events, class support or committee work.

Question 11

What is the Point-Virgule method?

Accepted Answer

Point-Virgule is a structured French language learning programme developed by the EFBA (a US-based French language organisation and FLAM member). It’s designed specifically for bilingual children living outside of France, to support consistent, age-appropriate progress in reading, writing, and grammar.

We are adopting the Point-Virgule method in the Écureuils, Grenouilles and Marmottes classes to bring more structure and clarity to our teaching. It provides:
- A well-defined programme across the year
- Level-appropriate learning goals
- Support for student assessment and class progression
- Clear materials to help families support learning at home

There is an additional fee for the Point-Virgule method that will be added to your annual registration.

FAQs

Frequently asked questions