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TLDR
Coming back to learning French after a gap of 40 years, Colette enrolled on NEC’s AS level French online course, which she describes as a ‘revelation’. NEC’s course provided her with the structure of a formal framework that was missing in other language learning online. Her tutor Ségolène provided excellent support and motivational feedback, to the extent that the day after completing her AS level exams, Colette signed up to continue her study and complete the full A level French course.
Returning to Learning to Study French Online ‘a Revelation’
Learning a language through online distance learning can be a highly effective way to develop fluency, cultural awareness, critical thinking, and career ready language skills – as explained by National Extension College (NEC) lead tutor for French and Spanish, Ségolène Armour, in this blog post.
One of tutor Ségolène’s students, Colette, studied AS level French online with NEC and after completing her AS exams, decided to continue her study by enrolling on the A2 part of the full A level French qualification.
Colette says she ‘really loved’ the way we teach the course at NEC, that coming back to learning French after a gap of more than 40 years since taking her O level was a ‘big step’ – and finding NEC’s AS/A level course a ‘revelation’.
Why Pay for an Online French Course?
With many free courses available online to learn French, why did Colette choose NEC’s online AS level French course?
“Before discovering the NEC, I found that whilst there is a wealth of opportunity for language learning online, what was often missing was the structure of a more formal framework.”
“Discovering the NEC course was fantastic as it provided the structure and support I needed and with the bonus of working towards a recognised academic qualification.” – Colette
How NEC’s Online French Course Encourages Independent Learning
Like all NEC’s online GCSEs and A levels, the AS French course is self-paced, guiding students through the syllabus (AQA 7651 / 7652), and with regular tutor-marked assignments, optional quizzes and additional resources to support learning.
This, says Colette, encouraged her engagement with the course, and prompted her to do further independent study on French websites.
The Importance of Tutor Support When Studying French Online
Our tutors play an important role in every student’s journey with NEC, and Colette has lots of praise for Ségolène:
“The support I received from my tutor, Ségolène, was invaluable. Not only did she provide excellent feedback on Assignments, but she also introduced me to modern learning methodologies such as spaced repetition, flashcards, and knowledge organisers – all of which never even existed in my schooldays! Creating knowledge organisers helped enormously with my revision.” – Colette
The right tutor can make all the difference to a student’s success and we frequently hear from NEC students who credit their tutor with boosting their confidence, motivating them to continue their studies, and helping them to achieve their goals, their way. Colette continues:
“Finding NEC has provided me with exactly the level of structure I was looking for – and with the bonus of excellent support and very motivational feedback.” – Colette
Would Colette Recommend Studying French Online?
NEC’s online language courses help independent learners to build confidence, gain recognised qualifications, and achieve their learning goals – all whilst studying flexibly to fit their learning around their life and other commitments.
“I would not hesitate to recommend NEC, and have in fact already done so!”, says Colette. “I really have loved participating in the NEC course, and will continue to do so; a huge thank you to my tutor for all of her support. It really is appreciated.”
Why Colette is Continuing Her Study of French Online
Learning a language can have a profoundly positive impact on our personal development, and grow important skills and habits. Being proficient in a language is also a powerful tool in the world of work, and a real asset in a number of exciting and engaging careers.
For anyone motivated to learn another language, distance learning provides a positive experience that should be considered. One of the greatest advantages is the flexibility that it offers as learners are not tied to a timetable or the need to attend classes in person.
This flexibility enabled Colette to return to learning French after a 40 year gap when she enrolled on NEC’s AS level French online course; an experience that she enjoyed so much that she is continuing to study for the full A level qualification.
“I have really enjoyed learning with NEC immensely and highly recommend it. The course content focussing on French Culture and Society is engaging. I was motivated throughout and really benefited from the tutor support – to such an extent that I signed up to continue the course up to A level only the day after completing my AS exams.” – Colette
If you are considering studying a language online by distance learning, perhaps Colette’s final thoughts are those that will convince you to take the next step and enrol on a course today!
Thinking of Studying French or Spanish Online?
Whether you are returning to education after several years away, need a specific qualification to apply for university, an alternative to a more traditional school or college setting, or simply want the flexibility to study alongside work or other commitments, an online language course will enable you to achieve Your Goals, Your Way.
The National Extension College offers online courses in French and Spanish at (I)GCSE, AS level, and A level. All courses come with specialist support and feedback from our experienced tutors.
Explore NEC’s online language courses today.
If you’ve got a question, our friendly Course Advice Team will be happy to help you.