Back to school
Vive la rentrée ? September is a tough time of year for young students whose confidence in their French often takes a knock after a couple of months' absence from the classroom. Teachers at school simply cannot devote as much attention to individuals as they'd like, are constrained by time and tethered to a syllabus. As the term wears on, I'll be getting calls from parents who notice that their child who once loved and excelled at French now complains of not understanding anything and feels overwhelmed and that they're "falling behind". Some become withdrawn and reticent to talk in class where once they were cheerful, regular contributors. I believe it is a combination of patience and experience along with an open, relaxed attitude that promotes younger students' trust in me and a growing confidence in their own ability: if your youngster is keen to work then I can help re-ignite the curiosity and passion for French which spurred...