Improving my French through Conversation | Students Stories

What it’s like to join our French conversation classes - Testimonials inside 😄

“It would be amazing to start improving my French through conversation… but I’m not sure how to do it. Besides, I don’t live in France.”

If you’ve ever thought this, here’s some good news: you don’t need to fly to the old continent to speak the language of Molière!

You can practice right here in Australia by joining our French speaking group. Wondering what it’s really like? Read the testimonials of 5 of our students — from their initial doubts to how they feel after joining the club. Let’s go! 😉

Before joining the French conversation group

Why our students decided to join the croissant crew

Whether it’s brushing up on their language skills, exploring Francophone culture, or simply meeting new people, students join a conversation group for all sorts of reasons! Here’s what brought a few of our learners to our little squad 🥐:

“I wanted to keep my brain engaged and keep my first love of French alive. My conversation skills were rusty, after a long gap of learning.” - Sarah

“The fact that Duolingo wouldn’t get me any further.” - Jan

“I wanted to improve my confidence, vocabulary and speaking fluidity. I also wanted to broaden my community and expand my knowledge of French culture.” - Oshaen

Each student who shared their experience had their own reasons for joining — but they all had one thing in common: a desire to improve their French speaking skills and gain confidence. 

Kathleen Syme Library and Community Centre, Carlton VIC

Our learners’ biggest fears before starting

As with any new experience, our students had some concerns before joining. Most of them were nervous about not being “good enough”, or about joining a group where they didn't know anyone (which is always a bit scary!)... 

Here’s what was going through their heads before day one:

“ I felt a bit nervous to join because I hadn’t met anyone in the group beforehand [...] I was worried everyone’s skills would be way more advanced than my own.” - Oshaen

“How would I compare with my fellow students? Would I fit in?” - Sarah

“Excited and a little anxious that I wouldn't have enough French to be able to participate.” - Kath

Big thanks to them for opening up about their feelings, we bet a lot of learners can relate. 🤗

Improving my French through conversation in class

What students remember after their first class

It’s always interesting to look back on your first impression after some time has passed. Here’s what Lisa, Jan, and Sarah remember from their very first day in the French speaking group:

“How nice everyone was and how lovely Sophie is as a teacher and a person. I was made to feel welcome and accepted even though my skills weren’t great.” - Lisa

“That I was bad but not too bad” - Jan 😉

“I was surprised but pleased to hear that  discussion of the news was banned - such a refreshing take!” - Sarah

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Topics and activities learners enjoy the most

One of the things our Francophile students seem to appreciate most is the variety of topics and activities from one session to the next. Whether it’s spontaneous conversations, games, or cultural discussions — everyone finds something they truly like!

“I've enjoyed the range of topics and especially how our conversations at the start of each session go in all sorts of directions. I think that shows our increasing confidence.” - Kath

“I’ve enjoyed discussing varied cultural experiences, books and cultural events going on in Melbourne and current events.” - Oshaen

“I really like the games that we play. They’re always fun and funny.” - Lisa

“Just chatting” - Jan

How students feel after a few months of speaking Français

How the group members feel after a few sessions

After just a few months in the conversation group, students noticed a real shift — not only in their speaking confidence, but also in the sense of community they’ve built together. The session is a space where everyone can feel comfortable making mistakes and growing together. 🧘 

Here’s how Lisa describes her experience:

“I am definitely more confident. I am slowly getting better at speaking and I’m really having a good laugh with the other students. It’s also the best dose of humility I have had in years! 😂 Everyone is fabulous and I look forward to our sessions. It’s definitely a highlight of my week.” 

So finally, to the big question: what has changed since joining the group?

This is what some of our students had to say 🙂:

“Confidence is the number 1. I am also a little less worried about making a mistake. [...] I really look forward to the sessions and feel that my skills are improving. We have a great group, great tutor and everyone has a lot to offer. The group has bonded really well.” - Kath

“I feel more confident to share my thoughts and happy with my new social group. I also feel a bit more comfortable trying to speak about more abstract ideas in French.” - Oshaen

“Definitely more relaxed now in class. We are a diverse group which always makes for interesting and varied conversation. I look forward to every session.” - Sarah

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In short: would our students recommend joining a French speaking club?

Would you recommend these French conversation classes? Here’s the verdict from our students about our final question 🧑‍⚖️ : 

“Absolutely! Sophie supports our growth. I like the small size of the group.” - Kath

“Yes bc there’s no pressure and it’s entertaining and there’s progress.” - Jan 

“Yes! I’d recommend this group to anyone looking to work on their language skills, chat about diverse topics and meet fantastic people. :)” - Oshaen

I hope these little testimonials have inspired you and given you an idea of what it’s like to improve your French through conversation. A big thank you to our students for sharing their feedback, and most importantly… Congratulations on your progress! 💪

Whether online or in Melbourne, you're welcome to join our little croissant lover team — spots are limited, so grab yours soon!

As we say in France: “plus on est de fous, plus on rit” (= the more, the merrier). 🥳

➡️ Interested? Find out all the details on this page.

Bonne journée à toi !