Pack your bags — and your French! French: Language for Travel is a practical A1 course that helps you speak with confidence on holiday or work trips. Over two consecutive Saturdays at IH London, you’ll practice the phrases that matter through role-plays, guided conversations and real travel scenarios. 

You’ll leave with a “survival French” toolkit: high-frequency vocabulary, clearer pronunciation, and easy strategies to keep talking even when you can’t remember the exact word. 

Why study French at IH London? 

French is one of the world’s most widely spoken languages and an excellent choice for travel, culture and international communication.

At International House London, you’ll learn with expert teachers and dynamic, interactive lessons that help you build real communication skills quickly and naturally — with plenty of guided speaking practice from day one. 

What’s included in your course? 

• Lesson summaries, notes and learning resources 

• Additional self-study materials 

• Ongoing support from experienced teachers 

• Access to exclusive IH London student workshops and events

This course is ideal for learners who want practical French for travel, including: 

• students who have studied very little French but want to use it more confidently 

• beginners who want a focused “holiday French” boost 

• learners who can understand basic French but hesitate when speaking 

• anyone travelling to France or other French-speaking destinations who wants useful language for real situations 

If you’re unsure about your level, we can help you choose the best option. 

By the end of this course, you will be able to: 

Communicate confidently in common travel situations 

You’ll practice French for real-life travel scenarios, such as: 

• greetings, introductions and polite social language 

• checking in/out at hotels and handling common requests 

• ordering in cafés/restaurants (dietary needs, problems, paying) 

• asking for and understanding directions and transport information 

• shopping and making simple enquiries (prices, sizes, tickets, times) 

• dealing with unexpected situations (lost items, delays, health/pharmacy basics) 

Speak more clearly and naturally 

You’ll also build speaking confidence through: 

• key survival phrases and high-frequency vocabulary 

• strategies to keep going when you don’t know the exact word (rephrasing, clarification, “buying time”) 

• pronunciation support for clearer, more intelligible French 

• mini role-plays and speaking tasks to help you respond quickly and naturally 

Explore French-speaking cultures 

Alongside the language, you’ll build cultural confidence through: 

• polite requests and everyday etiquette 

• typical service interactions and communication style 

• practical tips for France and French-speaking destinations 

Course materials: All course materials are shared via SharePoint. You will receive the access link in your welcome email, which is sent 24 hours before the course starts. 

Do I need previous knowledge of French? 
Some basic French is helpful, but the course is designed to support learners who want practical travel language and lots of guided speaking practice. 

When is the course and how long is each class? 
The course runs on two consecutive Saturdays, 10:00–13:00, at IH London. 

Is this course face-to-face or online? 
This is a face-to-face course taught at our school in London. 

What level is the course? 
This course is best for beginners and near-beginners who want practical French for travel. If you’re unsure, we can advise you on the best option. 

Will there be lots of speaking practice? 
Yes. The course is highly practical and includes guided speaking tasks, role-plays and realistic travel scenarios to help you build confidence quickly. 

What should I bring to class? 
Just a notebook and something to write with. Your teacher will provide materials, and digital resources are shared via SharePoint. 

Where will the class take place? 
Classes take place at IH London – 16 Stukeley Street, London WC2B 5LQ. You’ll receive full details in your welcome email. 

What if I miss a Saturday? 
Because this is a short course, it’s best to attend both sessions. If you miss a class, we’ll share key materials via SharePoint, but we can’t replicate the in-class speaking practice. 

Can I continue studying after this course? 
Yes! Your teacher can recommend the best next step, such as a general French course or a level-based programme at IH London. 

How will I receive the course materials? 
All course materials are shared via SharePoint, with access provided in your welcome email 24 hours before the course starts. 

Is there a coursebook? 
No fixed coursebook is required — your teacher will provide targeted materials and resources for the course. 

French Level 1 (A0) is a complete beginner course for students who have never studied the language before. If you already have some basic knowledge of French, we recommend taking our placement test or contacting the Foreign Language Department, as a more suitable course may be available for you.   

Our classes take place at our school in Covent Garden with qualified, experienced teachers.   

Classes at IH London are dynamic and interactive as the emphasis is on spoken communication. Lessons are primarily taught in French and include interactive activities like group work and role-plays to boost confidence and fluency. Our courses help you use French in everyday situations, while building core skills: listening, speaking, reading, and writing. 

 After Level 1, continue your learning with Level 2 and beyond. Progression is based on your class participation and self-study—there are no formal tests. To help you better understand our level system, check our level chart. 

What’s included in your course? 

• Lesson summaries, notes & resources 

• French study tips 

• Additional study resources 

• Support from experienced teachers 

• Exclusive workshops and events to IH London students 

By the end of your course, you should be able to: 

• Introduce yourself and others and exchange basic personal information 

• Ask and answer simple questions about nationality, language, and contact details 

• Express likes and dislikes and engage in basic social interactions 

• Use the present tense of être and avoir, and apply simple grammar structures (articles, pronouns, negation) 

• Understand and use numbers, dates, and vocabulary related to family and personal interests 

• Recognise and use formal and informal language appropriately in everyday situations 

• Gain cultural awareness of naming customs and social conventions in French-speaking contexts 

Materials 

Required Coursebook: 
Mon Alter Ego 1 – Livre de l’élève A1 – Celine Himber, Catherine Hugot & Monique Waendendries 

Publisher – Hachette  

ISBN 978-2017153139 

Unit 1 

Please note we might not cover all activities during the course. You can buy your coursebook via our website with a link shared with you in your welcome email. 

French Level 1 (A0) is a complete beginner course for students who have never studied the language before. If you already have some basic knowledge of French, we recommend taking our placement test or contacting the Foreign Language Department, as a more suitable course may be available for you.   

Our classes take place at our school in Covent Garden with qualified, experienced teachers.   

Classes at IH London are dynamic and interactive as the emphasis is on spoken communication. Lessons are primarily taught in French and include interactive activities like group work and role-plays to boost confidence and fluency. Our courses help you use French in everyday situations, while building core skills: listening, speaking, reading, and writing. 

 After Level 1, continue your learning with Level 2 and beyond. Progression is based on your class participation and self-study—there are no formal tests. To help you better understand our level system, check our level chart. 

What’s included in your course? 

• Lesson summaries, notes & resources 

• French study tips 

• Additional study resources 

• Support from experienced teachers 

• Exclusive workshops and events to IH London students 

By the end of your course, you should be able to: 

• Introduce yourself and others and exchange basic personal information 

• Ask and answer simple questions about nationality, language, and contact details 

• Express likes and dislikes and engage in basic social interactions 

• Use the present tense of être and avoir, and apply simple grammar structures (articles, pronouns, negation) 

• Understand and use numbers, dates, and vocabulary related to family and personal interests 

• Recognise and use formal and informal language appropriately in everyday situations 

• Gain cultural awareness of naming customs and social conventions in French-speaking contexts 

Materials 

Required Coursebook: 
Mon Alter Ego 1 – Livre de l’élève A1 – Celine Himber, Catherine Hugot & Monique Waendendries 

Publisher – Hachette  

ISBN 978-2017153139 

Unit 1 

Please note we might not cover all activities during the course. You can buy your coursebook via our website with a link shared with you in your welcome email. 

French Level 1 (A0) is a complete beginner course for students who have never studied the language before. If you already have some basic knowledge of French, we recommend taking our placement test or contacting the Foreign Language Department, as a more suitable course may be available for you.   

Our classes take place at our school in Covent Garden with qualified, experienced teachers.   

Classes at IH London are dynamic and interactive as the emphasis is on spoken communication. Lessons are primarily taught in French and include interactive activities like group work and role-plays to boost confidence and fluency. Our courses help you use French in everyday situations, while building core skills: listening, speaking, reading, and writing. 

After Level 1, continue your learning with Level 2 and beyond. Progression is based on your class participation and self-study—there are no formal tests. To help you better understand our level system, check our level chart. 

What’s included in your course? 

• Lesson summaries, notes & resources 

• French study tips 

• Additional study resources 

• Support from experienced teachers 

• Exclusive workshops and events to IH London students 

By the end of your course, you should be able to: 

• Introduce yourself and others and exchange basic personal information 

• Ask and answer simple questions about nationality, language, and contact details 

• Express likes and dislikes and engage in basic social interactions 

• Use the present tense of être and avoir, and apply simple grammar structures (articles, pronouns, negation) 

• Understand and use numbers, dates, and vocabulary related to family and personal interests 

• Recognise and use formal and informal language appropriately in everyday situations 

• Gain cultural awareness of naming customs and social conventions in French-speaking contexts 

Materials 

Required Coursebook: 
Mon Alter Ego 1 – Livre de l’élève A1 – Celine Himber, Catherine Hugot & Monique Waendendries 

Publisher – Hachette  

ISBN 978-2017153139 

Unit 1 

Please note we might not cover all activities during the course. You can buy your coursebook via our website with a link shared with you in your welcome email. 

French Level 1 (A0) is a complete beginner course for students who have never studied the language before. If you already have some basic knowledge of French, we recommend taking our placement test or contacting the Foreign Language Department, as a more suitable course may be available for you.   

Our classes take place at our school in Covent Garden with qualified, experienced teachers.   

Classes at IH London are dynamic and interactive as the emphasis is on spoken communication. Lessons are primarily taught in French and include interactive activities like group work and role-plays to boost confidence and fluency. Our courses help you use French in everyday situations, while building core skills: listening, speaking, reading, and writing. 

 After Level 1, continue your learning with Level 2 and beyond. Progression is based on your class participation and self-study—there are no formal tests. To help you better understand our level system, check our level chart. 

What’s included in your course? 

• Lesson summaries, notes & resources 

• French study tips 

• Additional study resources 

• Support from experienced teachers 

• Exclusive workshops and events to IH London students 

By the end of your course, you should be able to: 

• Introduce yourself and others and exchange basic personal information 

• Ask and answer simple questions about nationality, language, and contact details 

• Express likes and dislikes and engage in basic social interactions 

• Use the present tense of être and avoir, and apply simple grammar structures (articles, pronouns, negation) 

• Understand and use numbers, dates, and vocabulary related to family and personal interests 

• Recognise and use formal and informal language appropriately in everyday situations 

• Gain cultural awareness of naming customs and social conventions in French-speaking contexts 

Materials 

Required Coursebook: 
Mon Alter Ego 1 – Livre de l’élève A1 – Celine Himber, Catherine Hugot & Monique Waendendries 

Publisher – Hachette  

ISBN 978-2017153139 

Unit 1 

Please note we might not cover all activities during the course. You can buy your coursebook via our website with a link shared with you in your welcome email. 

Our Fast Track French Level 1 and 2 (A1) course is designed for complete beginners who are looking to accelerate their language learning. Classes take place twice a week at our school in Covent Garden. Led by qualified, experienced teachers, our lessons are dynamic, engaging, and focused on spoken communication. Classes are taught primarily in French and include a variety of interactive activities such as group discussions, role-plays, and practical exercises to build fluency and confidence.

Is this course for you?

This course is ideal for complete beginners who are ready to commit to a more intensive learning experience. If you’re looking to make faster progress and can attend classes twice a week, this course is a great fit. However, if you prefer a slower pace or have a busier schedule, we also offer evening, afternoon and weekend courses that take place once a week—perfect for learners seeking a less intense option. If you already have some basic knowledge of French, we recommend taking our placement test or contacting the Foreign Language Department, as a more suitable course may be available for you. After this course, continue your learning with Level 3 and 4 (A1) and beyond. Progression is based on your class participation and self-study—there are no formal tests. To help you better understand our level system, check our level chart.

Course Dates:

Monday and Wednesdays: 12th January 2026 – 25th February 2026 (Break 16th and 18th February 2026)
Tuesday and Thursdays: 10th March 2026 – 30th April (Easter Break – 31st March – 9th April 2026)
Monday and Wednesdays: 11th May 2026 – 24th June 2026 (Spring Break 25th and 27th May 2026)
Tuesday and Thursdays: 7th July – 13th August 2026
Monday and Wednesdays: 31st August – 7th October 2026
Tuesday and Thursdays: 13th October – 26th November 2026 (Autumn Break – 27th and 29th October 2026)

What’s Included in your course?

• Lesson summaries, notes & resources
• French study tips
• Additional study resources
• Support from experienced teachers
• Exclusive workshops and events to IH London students

By the end of your course, you should be able to:

• Introduce yourself and other people.
• Ask and respond to basic questions in everyday situations.
• Talk about different nationalities and languages.
• Share personal details such as your birthday, phone number, and email address.
• Express likes and dislikes in casual conversations.
• Announce and provide information about an event.
• Get to know others by asking for personal information.

Materials

Required Coursebook:
MON ALTER EGO 1 – Livre de l’élève + Parcours digital – A1 – Catherine Hugot, Monique WAENDRIES & Celine HIMBER
Publisher: Hachette
ISBN 9782017153139

For this course we will use units 1 to 2 in the coursebook. Please note we might not cover all activities during the course. You can buy your coursebook via our website with a link shared with you on your welcome email.

Start your day by investing in your career. 

Career Boost: French (A1.1) is designed for professionals with no previous knowledge of French who want to start communicating confidently with French-speaking colleagues, clients, and partners. 

In this practical and supportive course, you will learn the essential language and cultural skills needed for professional interactions in French. From your very first lesson, you will begin practising how to introduce yourself, exchange basic information, and manage simple workplace conversations. 

Our 75-minute morning sessions (08:00–09:15 UK time) fit perfectly into your early routine, allowing you to develop valuable language skills before the working day begins. 

By the end of the course, you will have progressed from complete beginner to confident communicator in basic professional situations. 

Course Snapshot 

• Level: Complete Beginner (A1.1) – no previous French required 

• Schedule: Twice a week (Mondays and Fridays) 

• Time: 08:00–09:15 UK time (75 minutes) 

• Format: Live online classes via Zoom 

• Duration: 8 weeks 

Why study Professional French at IH London? 

Designed for Professionals 

Lessons focus on practical workplace communication rather than textbook dialogues. 

Speak from Day One 

You will begin introducing yourself and interacting in French from your very first class. 

Expert Teachers 

Learn from experienced language trainers who specialise in teaching professionals and corporate clients. 

Recognised Certification 

Receive an IH London Certificate that you can add to your CV or LinkedIn profile. 

This course is ideal for: 

Complete Beginners 

Professionals with little or no previous knowledge of French. 

International Professionals 

Anyone working with French-speaking clients, colleagues, or partners. 

Future Relocators 

Those planning to work in France or other French-speaking regions. 

Business Networkers 

Professionals who want to manage introductions, small talk, and basic professional interactions with confidence. 

By the end of the course, you will be able to: 

Make Professional First Impressions 

• Greet colleagues and clients confidently in French 

• Introduce yourself and describe your profession 

• Spell names and technical terms using the French alphabet 

Exchange Essential Information 

• Talk about nationality and languages spoken 

• Share availability and basic personal information 

• Introduce colleagues and describe their roles 

Build Core Language Foundations 

You will also develop essential grammar and vocabulary including: 

• Masculine and feminine forms of professions and nationalities 

• Present tense of key verbs: être (to be) and avoir (to have) 

• Numbers 0–69 for dates, contact information, and basic data 

What happens in a typical lesson? 

Each session includes a mix of: 

• Interactive speaking practice 

• Practical workplace scenarios 

• Clear explanations of key grammar 

• Pair and small-group activities in breakout rooms 

This approach helps you build confidence step by step in a supportive environment. 

Do I need any previous knowledge? No. This is a complete beginner course. If you have studied French before, please contact us for a quick level assessment. 

What happens if I miss a class due to work? We understand the demands of a professional schedule. While regular attendance is recommended, lesson summaries, slides, and resources are uploaded to SharePoint within 24 hours of each class. 

Will I receive a certificate? Yes. Upon successful completion and meeting the attendance requirement, you will receive an IH London Certificate of Achievement. 

I work in a global company—will I learn to communicate with people from different countries? Absolutely. We take a Global French approach, introducing key cultural differences across the French-speaking world so you can communicate effectively with colleagues and clients from different regions. 

I’m nervous about speaking in front of others. Will I be forced to present? Not at all. Lessons include plenty of pair and small-group work in breakout rooms, allowing you to practise in a safe, low-pressure environment. Our teachers ensure everyone participates at their own pace. 

What if my level is slightly higher than A1.1? If you studied some French previously (for example at school), we recommend contacting our academic team for a quick informal level check before booking. 

How much self-study is recommended? To get the most out of the course, we suggest around 60 minutes of review per week, such as revising lesson slides, completing short exercises, or listening to audio materials. 

Can I book this course for my team? Yes. We also offer private group courses for companies, with content tailored to your industry — whether Finance, Law, Tech, or Hospitality. Contact languages@ihlondon.com for more information. 

Is the course online or face-to-face? This course is delivered live online via Zoom. 

Do I need to install anything to join? You simply need access to Zoom (app or browser). Joining details will be sent before the course begins. 

What do I need for the lessons? A stable internet connection and a device with a microphone and camera (headphones recommended). A notebook can also be useful for quick notes. 

How will I receive course materials? All materials are shared via SharePoint, with access provided in your welcome email 24 hours before the course starts. 

Is there a coursebook? No fixed coursebook is required. Your teacher will provide targeted materials designed specifically for the course. 

Why not try out a sample beginners French lesson before signing up to a full course? These one-off sessions are aimed at students who have never studied the French language before. 

Our French language classes take place at our school in Covent Garden with a qualified, experienced teacher and fellow students. Evening language classes at IH London are dynamic and interactive as the emphasis is on spoken communication, which is achieved through lots of group work and role-plays. At the same time, there is systematic work on grammar, vocabulary and pronunciation, so that you can improve on all aspects of the language. Your teacher speaks in the target language throughout, so that you can refine your comprehension and listening skills.

Sample Lesson Plan

• Greeting people
• Introducing yourself and someone else
• Asking and giving personal details (name, nationalities, profession, age, phone number, date of birth)