French 1 (Beginners) - starts January

Who is this course for?

This course is designed for complete beginners or those with very limited experience of the French language. 

Course overview

This course focuses on the spoken language, and aims to equip you with the skills needed for everyday situations in a French-speaking environment. You will learn things like introducing yourself and others, describing daily activities and hobbies, talking about your family, describing a home, shopping, ordering food and drink, and making travel arrangements. Through these you will be introduced to basic French grammar while also developing your French vocabulary.

Although we will introduce you to reading and writing in French, the emphasis will be on listening and speaking skills to help you get started your French journey. The course also explores aspects of French culture and daily life to provide context to the language learning process. 

The sessions are intended to be engaging, confidence-building, and inclusive, allowing participants to develop language skills at their own pace. Advice on which course textbook to buy will be given in the first class.

Term dates

•  Spring Term: week beginning 12 January 2026 until week ending 20 March 2026

•  Summer Term: week beginning 27 April 2026 until week ending 3 July 2026

Any questions?

If not a complete beginner in the language please seek level advice. For this and any questions pre-enrolment about the content of this course please contact the Assistant French Coordinator, Laurence Zanier at l.zanier@imperial.ac.uk

If you have any questions about enrolment please contact the Imperial after:hours Administrator, Christian Jacobi at c.jacobi@imperial.ac.uk

Class recordings

These classes are not recorded.

Imperial certificates

There are no examinations or assessments for this course. However, attendance can lead to the award of an Imperial attendance certificate (T&Cs apply).