On Saturday, August 31-19 Year 10, 11, and 12 girls entered the prestigious French exam DELF where their level of proficiency in listening, reading, writing and speaking French is tested.

Candidates who pass B2 level gain direct entry to French universities without having to sit a language entrance test (similar to IELTS).

The exam is organised by Alliance Française branches all over the world. St Margaret’s College is one of the few schools in Christchurch who can participate in the New Zealand session with Dr Hossbach as a qualified DELF examiner.

Our girls prepared for this in class and at lunchtime for months (a special MERCI to Lauren Healey who coached the Year 10 candidates so well!) and feared closer to the date that COVID 19 would end their plans. However, we were lucky, and the event could take place in a safe environment where candidates (and chocolates) kept their distance throughout this sunny Saturday.

And the results? Simply amazing! All girls passed with flying colours. Christchurch-wide, SMC has the top results at all levels entered (A1 Emily Harris, A2 Lauren Healey, B2 Sophie Berrill). Sophie Berrill has also gained entry to the National Discours Oral thanks to her excellent regional performance. Girls, you make us proud. SMC is a French-speaking force to be reckoned with.