BFI Visit Brings French Film to Life
French A Level students spent a day at British Film Institute (BFI), taking part in a specialist workshop and lecture on the groundbreaking film-making techniques pioneered by the Nouvelle Vague and their lasting influence on contemporary cinema.
The session offered students a valuable opportunity to deepen their understanding of key cinematic concepts while sharpening their analytical writing skills in French—perfect preparation as they approach their Mock Exams! As confident and increasingly sophisticated writers about film, the students were able to engage fully with the ideas presented and reflect critically on the themes and techniques discussed.
In the afternoon, students watched Girlhood (Bande de Filles) by Céline Sciamma, a contemporary film that carries a strong flavour of the Nouvelle Vague in both style and spirit. The students described it as “heartbreaking”, “frustrating”, “a real mixture”, and found the day a really valuable experience.
Catherine Wilks, Head of Modern Languages, said;
“It was great to see a huge number of students of A level French gathered together; the presenter was clear, empathetic, and a real aficionado who nevertheless communicated her ideas in French throughout!”
