Welcoming students who speak other languages

‍Learn French with confidence at 314 International School

Moving to a new country is an exciting adventure for a family.

For a child, it’s also a big change.

A new home, new surroundings, new friends… and sometimes a new language to learn.

In the Paris-Saclay region, many international families move there every year for professional or personal reasons. Very quickly, a key question arises: how can they find a school where their child can thrive, even if they don’t speak French yet?

At 314 International School, we regularly welcome students who speak a language other than French—that is, children whose native language is not French. Our approach is based on a simple idea: learning a new language should be a stimulating experience, never an obstacle to the joy of learning.

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Understanding the challenges faced by students who speak a language other than English

When a child starts at a school where the language is unfamiliar to them, the first few days can be unsettling.

Instructions aren't always understood right away. Conversations among classmates can seem fast-paced or hard to follow. Even simple aspects of school life can require extra effort.

But beyond language, there is another key issue: self-confidence.

A child who doesn’t yet understand everything may be hesitant to participate, ask questions, or speak up. That’s why welcoming students who speak other languages isn’t just about teaching vocabulary. Above all, it’s about helping them quickly regain a sense of security and success in the classroom.

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A naturally international school

314 International School is a bilingual French-English school that welcomes students from diverse cultural backgrounds and walks of life.

In our classrooms, it’s common to hear several languages spoken and to meet students who have lived in different countries. This diversity creates an environment that is particularly welcoming for children who are just beginning to learn French.

Students quickly come to understand that everyone learns at their own pace and that struggling at first is a normal part of the learning process.

This cultural openness helps create an environment in which curiosity and kindness naturally take precedence over the fear of making mistakes.

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Learn French step by step

For students who arrive without speaking French, we provide support based on the teaching of French as a foreign language (FLE).

The goal is to support the child in a gradual and natural progression.

At first, students learn to understand the essential vocabulary used in the classroom: instructions, simple exchanges, and everyday expressions.

Little by little, he is expanding his vocabulary, beginning to form his own sentences, and participating more actively in school activities.

Teachers use a variety of tools to help students understand: gestures, images, real-life situations, and interactions with other students. Learning thus takes place in lively and engaging contexts.

Very quickly, the children discover that they can understand more than they thought and begin to speak French with confidence.

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The Role of Bilingualism

The school’s bilingual program provides significant support for students who speak a language other than French.

Some subjects are taught in English, while others are taught in French. This approach allows English-speaking students to continue learning in a language they are comfortable with, while gradually becoming familiar with French.

For example:

• Science and geography are taught in English

• Mathematics is taught in both languages

• French is taught in French

• English is taught by native English-speaking teachers

Thanks to this balance, the child never feels held back in their learning. They remain active, curious, and engaged in their studies while gradually developing their French language skills.

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Small class sizes

Supporting students who speak a language other than English requires careful attention and personalized support.

That is why class sizes at 314 International School are intentionally kept small. This approach allows teachers to get to know each student and tailor their support to meet their individual needs.

A child entering a new language environment can thus benefit from close attention, additional explanations when needed, and a trusting relationship with their teacher.

Under these circumstances, progress is often rapid and very encouraging.

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A valuable asset for the entire school community

Having students from different countries greatly enriches school life.

Children naturally discover other cultures, other languages, and other ways of seeing the world. Interactions among students fuel their curiosity and foster a genuine global perspective from an early age.

Learning alongside students from different backgrounds helps children understand that languages are not barriers, but bridges between cultures.

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Finding Your Place in a New School

Every child who joins 314 International School brings their own story, talents, and sometimes concerns.

Our role is to provide him with an environment where he can feel welcomed, understood, and encouraged.

Learning a new language is a challenging adventure, but also a deeply rewarding experience. With attentive guidance and a supportive environment, children quickly discover that they are capable of much more than they ever imagined.

At 314 International School, students gradually learn French while continuing to grow, explore, and learn with confidence.

Because every language is a treasure, and every child brings a world to share.

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