France | Bordeaux | Intensive French Course

Location

Bordeaux, in the South-West of France, is famous throughout the world for its unique wines. However, delve deeper into this city's UNESCO World Heritage listed urban and architectural heritage and you will find that it has so much more to offer. With a huge variety of squares, parks, cafes, monuments, museums and art galleries, Bordeaux is the perfect destination to study French.

Located in a superb town house typical of the 19th century, the language school in Bordeaux is in the heart of the historical city centre with its breathtaking architecture and unique atmosphere. The school has 9 well equipped classrooms, a beautiful lounge where students can relax between lessons, a computer room, free WiFi and a peaceful shaded garden. It really is a treat to complete your homework in the private garden under the shade of a fig tree. The school is centrally located and easily accessible via public transport. The Place de Quinconces, Place Gambetta and Place de la Bourse which are all bustling with cafés and shops are all within easy walking distance, making Bordeaux a destination with something for everyone.

Language Course

The core course comprises 20 lessons which concentrate on learning and actively using French. The tuition is very much practice oriented. You will participate in group sessions alongside other students of a similar level, with lessons focused on improving all aspects of the language; speaking listening, reading and writing. There are four 45 minute lessons per day and these take place during the morning. This course is designed for students who wish to learn or improve their French, meet new people and have some free time to participate in French culture and life in Bordeaux. The core course of 20 lessons also combines very well with a work experience option in our Work and Study package.

For students who want a more intensive experience, it is possible to add an extra 10 group lessons (for an additional cost).

There is also an option of 6 1:1 classes throughout the week (for an additional cost), the content of which will be decided by you in advance. We will ask you before you travel what you would like to cover with your tutor during these individual sessions, for example grammar, a specific thematic topic, conversation or pronunciation. 

You will be given a written assessment before you travel and a speaking assessment on the first morning before lessons in order to place you in the group most suited to your ability level. Classes have an international flavour and a lively feel because they are grouped by ability not nationality or age.

Optional Social and Cultural Programme

The school offers a range of activities during the week, such as a film club, meal out at a local restaurant, cultural tour of the city and an excursion to one of the many local vineyards. Some of the activities incur an extra cost (payable on the week of your stay directly to the school) however some are free. All activities are optional.

Accommodation

Transfers

The school is easily accessible via Bordeaux's excellent transport system and we are happy to provide details on request. We can also arrange private transfers for you from Bordeaux's airport or train stations for a supplement.

School Closures

The school will be closed on 01/11/24, 11/11/24, 01/01/25, 21/04/25, 01/05/25, 08/05/25, 29/05/25, 09/06/25, 14/07/25, 15/08/25, 01/11/25 and 11/11/25.

A discount of £40 is offered for any days where the school is closed. Of course in Bordeaux, there is no shortage of opportunities to spend the day exploring the sights, galleries, museums (many with free entry) and shops.

Insurance

Travel and Medical Insurance is available as an optional extra with this package. For more details please see our Insurance page.