My Day 1 Learning French at CLPS Saint-Malo: What to Expect After OFII Contact
Introduction
If you’ve recently moved to France and are starting your French language course as part of your OFII contract (200, 400, or 600 hours), here’s what my first day at CLPS Saint-Malo looked like, and what I wish I had known before walking in.
Arriving at CLPS Saint-Malo
Walking into the classroom felt a little bit like diving into the deep end, there’s no orientation session, no introduction, just straight into the lesson. When you take your seat, the teacher will hand you a document to sign. This sheet tracks the number of hours you've attended, which is especially important under your OFII obligation.
The atmosphere was calm, and the group was small, no more than 10 students, which helped make things more personal and less overwhelming.
No Orientation, Be Prepared!
Since there’s no official welcome or overview of what’s to come, I highly recommend preparing yourself with some basic French beforehand. Knowing simple grammar structures and a bit of everyday vocabulary will make a big difference. That way, you won’t feel lost on your first day and can follow the lesson more confidently.
What We Studied on Day 1
Our topic for the day was transportation, and the lesson was well-rounded, covering all four essential skills:
- Listening to understand vocabulary and conversation patterns
- Speaking in small groups to practice pronunciation and build confidence
- Reading short texts or signs related to transportation
- Writing simple sentences and descriptions
It was practical and relevant, a good first step into life in France.
The Location: Tips You Should Know
CLPS Saint-Malo is located quite far from the city centre, and unfortunately, it’s not surrounded by shops or restaurants. Here are a few important things to keep in mind:
- ✅ Bring your own lunch and drink. There is a vending machine for snacks and beverages, but no cafés or shops nearby.
- 🚶♀️ Prepare for a walk. The nearest bus stop isn’t close, so if you’re relying on public transportation, allow extra time and wear comfortable shoes.
- 🚗 If you have a car, greatม parking seemed manageable.
The Location: Tips You Should Know
Starting anything new can be nerve-wracking, especially in a different language, but Day 1 at CLPS Saint-Malo gave me a realistic idea of what the journey will be like. While there are no frills or warm-up sessions, the small class size and practical lessons make it a supportive learning environment. Just come prepared, stay open-minded, and bring a sandwich!
