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Language
Pathways.

MULTILINGUISM

Learning languages at IFS

At IFS, we champion the power of multilingual education to equip students for future success. Multilinguism enhances cognitive skills like problem-solving, focus, and multitasking while fostering cultural understanding and global perspectives

IFS follows the french national curriculum, offering flexible language streams leading to the Diplôme National du Brevet (DNB) and the French Baccalauréat. Students can adapt their stream based on proficiency and interests, with placement subject to pedagogical validation.

PRIMARY

Language Pathways In IFS Primary School

A Multilingual Education in French, English and Mandarin

At the International French School (IFS), we offer a bilingual education in French and English, with an introduction to Mandarin as part of the French National Education curriculum. This multilingual approach is available to all students in Kindergarten (Maternelle) and Elementary School (Élémentaire).

Two Language Pathways from Grade 1 (Cours Préparatoire – CP)

Starting in Grade 1 (CP), students can choose between two learning pathways:

1.Classic section:

The primary language of instruction is French, with dedicated hours for English and Mandarin.
Open to both native and non-native French speakers, with tailored French language support to help non-French-speaking students integrate smoothly into the curriculum.

2.English+ (Anglais+) section:

A bilingual learning experience where the French National curriculum is taught equally in French and English.
Designed for students who thrive in a balanced French-English immersion environment.

Admissions to both sections are subject to pedagogical validation.

MIDDLE SCHOOL

Language Pathways In IFS Middle School

A Multilingual Education Tailored for Success

At the International French School (Singapore), students in Collège (Middle School) can choose from three distinct language pathways: Classic, English International, and Mandarin. Admission to each pathway is subject to pedagogical validation.

1.Classic section:

Follows the French National curriculum with an enhanced focus on English.
Offers additional language options: German, Spanish, Mandarin, and Latin.
Prepares students for the Diplôme National du Brevet (DNB).
Supports non-French speakers through the French Passerelle programme for a smooth transition into the curriculum.

2. English International (British) section:

Integrates the French curriculum with British literature, history, and geography.
Leads to internationally recognised qualifications: DNBI, IGCSE, and BFI.
Ideal for students seeking a bilingual and bicultural academic experience.

3.Mandarin section:

Incorporates Mandarin language learning and Chinese cultural studies.
Designed to strengthen proficiency in Mandarin while following the French curriculum.
Prepares students for the DNB with a strong foundation in Chinese studies.

French International Student Making Lantern

HIGH SCHOOL

Language Pathways In IFS High School

Tailored Academic Pathways for Global Success

At the Lycée (High School) of the International French School (Singapore), students can choose from three academic pathways: Classic, International (British), and SELO (European/Oriental). Each pathway prepares students for the French Baccalaureate while offering unique language and cultural opportunities. Admission is subject to pedagogical validation.

1. Classic Section:

Follows the French National curriculum, with instruction primarily in French.
Includes three hours of English per week to strengthen language skills.
Prepares students for the French Baccalaureate, providing a solid academic foundation.

2. International (British) Section:

Combines the French curriculum with advanced British literature, history, and geography.
Leads to internationally recognised qualifications: IGCSE and BFI (French Baccalaureate with an International Option).
Ideal for students seeking a bilingual, globally competitive education.

3. SELO (European/Oriental) Pathway:

Focuses on enhanced English or Mandarin proficiency alongside the French curriculum.
Deepens language and cultural understanding in a European or Oriental context.
Prepares students for the European or Oriental French Baccalaureate, enhancing international mobility.

Ifs High School Student Graduation Holding Flower

PRIMARY

Language Pathways In Primary School

APTIS (Grade 6)
Flexible English proficiency test for speaking, listening, reading, and writing, tailored for teens by the British Council.

DNB (Grade 9)
Diplôme National du Brevet, with an international option (DNBI) in English (language, literature) and History-Geography.

IGCSE (Grade 10)
International General Certificate of Secondary Education (O-Level equivalent). A 2-year program covering English Language, Literature, and History Geography, recognized for higher education in the UK.

IELTS (Grade 11)
Globally accepted English language test, ideal for university admissions in English-speaking countries and international institutions.

French Baccalaureate (Grade 11)
National diploma with Classic, European (British), and Oriental (Mandarin) sections, enabling access to global higher education.

BFI (Grade 12)
French Baccalaureate International Option with advanced English Literature and History-Geography, offering a bilingual and bicultural education.

French International Student Listening In Class

Hanyu Shuiping Kaoshi (HSK)
The HSK is a globally recognised standardised test for Mandarin proficiency, certified by China’s Education Ministry. Designed for non-native speakers, it is offered at IFS to students in Grades 6 and 10.

Goethe-Zertifikat
This internationally recognised German language exam assesses reading, listening, writing, and speaking skills. Students receive a certificate aligned with the Common European Framework of Reference for Languages (CEFR).

Diplomas de Español como Lengua Extranjera (DELE)
Organised by Instituto Cervantes and the Spanish Ministry of Education, DELE certifies Spanish proficiency based on CEFR standards. Highly respected globally, it’s valued by educational institutions, businesses, and chambers of commerce.

Diploma of French Language Studies (DELF)
Delivered by the French Ministry of Education, DELF certifies French language skills internationally. DELF Junior (ages 13–17) and Prim (ages 8–12) are conducted in partnership with the Alliance Française.

Mandarin
Mandarin is offered to all students starting from PS (N2). In 6ème (grade 6) of the Classic Stream, students must attend mandarin classes which is one of the languages of our host country.

Spanish, German
LVB and LVC: optional German, Spanish or Mandarin.
o From 5ème (grade 7), mandatory 3h of LVB.
o From 4ème (grade 8), optional 3h of LVC, 2-year commitment until the end of 3ème

Please note that options will be opened only if we have a minimum of 8 students.

Language certifications
Students can obtain certifications that attest to their level of proficiency in the languages studied. These certifications are validated by internationally recognised organisations (Cervantes Institute for Spanish, Goethe Institute for German, YCT and HSK for Mandarin)

EMILE / CLIL for some hours taught in English in Primary school
Enseignement de Matières par l’Intégration d’une Langue Etrangère Content and Language Integrated Learning

Teaching of a subject of the programme in a foreign language (mathematics, history, music, physical education, etc.).

New to the French language: FLSco – Français Langue de Scolarisation (French Language Schooling). Designed to gradually integrate students into the French curriculum. From Grande Section (KG2, age 5) to CM2 (grade 5, age 10)

New to the English language: EFL, supporting English as a Foreign Language. From CP (grade 1, age 6) to CM2 (grade 5, age 10)

Immersive French language support programme: French Passerelle, (meaning bridge or gateway). Designed to gradually integrate non-French speakers into the French curriculum. For 6ème and 5ème, (grade 6 and 7, age 11 to 12).

To learn more about FLSco and French Passerelle, email us at:

flsco@ifs.edu.sg (Kindergarten and Elementary)

frenchpasserelle@ifs.edu.sg (Secondary)