Languages are a key component of education at Runnymede College, with all students studying French up to IGCSE in Year 11 and a large number continuing in the Sixth Form. The study of French provides students with a lifelong skill in communicating in a widely spoken language of continued global importance, and the experience of doing so opens students up to a different culture and gives them the tools necessary to learn other languages in the future.

At A level the examination specifications demand that students use their language skills to respond to the world around them in a far more analytical way than previously. New structures and a more advanced vocabulary are required to support the more nuanced style of communication needed to express ideas clearly and subtly. Far greater use is made of authentic materials and students study history, literature and film to give them a broader sense of French culture and to give real context to their studies. Students have weekly sessions with the language assistant to practise their speaking.

French is a popular subject at A level, combining effectively with all subjects to offer additional breadth in the humanities or a contrasting skill with the sciences and, very importantly, a life skill with real personal and professional value. As well as the A level students prepare and sit the C1 qualification which is recognised as part of the European language framework and gives access to university courses taught in French.

Students often go on to study French at university either alongside a new language or as an element of a business course.