BILINGUALISM

THE BEST OF BOTH WORLDS

We are deeply convinced that bilingualism is a tremendous asset for children. This has been proven time and time again by thousands of university research studies.

But for that to happen, the environment must be conducive to it, and certain conditions must be met. This is why we follow the “One person, one language” approach (OPOL in English). That is, each member of the team only speaks their mother tongue to the children. We also advise parents to speak to their child in their mother tongue: even if this is not always easy, many studies have shown that this strengthens parent-child emotional bonds, in addition to promoting bilingualism.

We make sure that all children are included and that all can take part in all activities. Children participate in a drama&music session every week. We also offer after school clubs in French and English, including a "Phonics" club which prepares children to Reception.

French-Speaking Classes

In our French-speaking classes, our teaching team is made up entirely of native French speakers.

Bilingual Classes

Bilingual classes operate on the same model as French-speaking classes, but with a teaching team made up in a balanced manner of English-speaking and French-speaking members. We strive to maintain a balance between the two languages. Therefore, every day the children participate in two circle times, one in French, the other in English. The school library includes books and CDs in both languages.

Most of the children who attend Ecole du Parc are bilingual, even trilingual. Most of the other children speak either English or French.

 Finally, we always communicate with families in both French and English.