Spanish A Level

A Level

Entry Requirements

• Grades 9-5 in Spanish and four or more GCSEs at grades 9-4.

Assessment

• 100% exam (50% listening and reading, 20% writing and 30% speaking)

Course Duration

• Two years

Exam Board

• AQA

Why Choose A-Level Spanish?

Choosing A-Level Spanish opens up a world of opportunities, both academically and personally. Spanish is the second most spoken language globally, and mastering it allows you to communicate with over 500 million people worldwide.

By studying Spanish, you gain access to rich cultures, histories, and traditions from Europe and Latin America. Additionally, in today’s globalized world, being multilingual is a highly sought-after skill, making Spanish an invaluable asset for future employment and personal growth.

What Will You Explore?

The A-Level Spanish curriculum is designed to deepen your understanding of both the Spanish language and the diverse cultures of Spanish-speaking countries. You will:

• Study a wide range of topics, such as contemporary society, political movements, multiculturalism, and artistic culture.

• Delve into authentic Spanish texts, literature, films, and media to enhance your language skills.

• Explore significant historical and political events in Spanish-speaking countries.

• Engage in discussions on pressing global issues, such as immigration, human rights, and environmental concerns.

Through these varied topics, you will not only improve your linguistic proficiency but also develop a global perspective, gaining insight into different ways of life and worldviews.

Skills You Will Develop

Studying A-Level Spanish is not just about learning a language; it’s about acquiring a broad set of skills that will benefit you in many areas:

• Advanced Communication: You will develop fluency in Spanish, enabling you to communicate confidently in both spoken and written forms.

• Critical Thinking: By analysing complex texts and engaging in debates, you will hone your analytical skills and the ability to form reasoned arguments.

• Cultural Awareness: You’ll gain a deep appreciation of different cultures and global issues, broadening your understanding of the world.

• Research and Analysis: The course encourages independent research on Spanish-speaking cultures and global themes, fostering your investigative and problem-solving skills.

• Adaptability and Confidence: Regular interaction in a foreign language will enhance your ability to adapt to new situations and build confidence in public speaking.

Transferable Skills and Real-World Impact

The skills you gain from studying A-Level Spanish are not limited to language proficiency; they are highly transferable to other areas of life and work:

• Problem-Solving and Creativity: Understanding cultural nuances and finding ways to communicate effectively in a different language enhances your problem-solving and creative thinking skills.

• Global Mind-set: In an increasingly interconnected world, being bilingual gives you a competitive edge and allows you to engage with different cultures, fostering better collaboration and understanding.

• Networking: Knowing Spanish increases your ability to network across countries, creating both personal and professional relationships on an international scale.

In real-world terms, being fluent in Spanish opens doors to a variety of travel, work, and cultural experiences. It allows you to connect with people from different backgrounds, access more diverse media and literature, and better understand global issues.

Where Can A-Level Spanish Lead?

A-Level Spanish opens doors to a wide range of further education opportunities, career paths, and real-world applications.

Further Education:

• University Degrees: A-Level Spanish is highly respected by universities and is an excellent foundation for degrees in Modern Languages, International Relations, Business, and Law. Many universities offer joint honours programs where you can combine Spanish with subjects like History, Politics, or Economics.

• Study Abroad: With Spanish as part of your academic background, you can study or work abroad in Spanish-speaking countries, providing invaluable international experience.

Career Opportunities: A-Level Spanish can lead to exciting careers in fields such as:

• International Business: Multinational companies seek bilingual professionals to manage overseas operations, negotiate with international clients, and expand their global reach.

• Diplomacy and International Relations: Spanish proficiency is an asset for those interested in working in government or international organizations like the United Nations, where multilingualism is essential.

• Translation and Interpretation: There is high demand for skilled translators and interpreters in media, law, healthcare, and international conferences.

• Tourism and Hospitality: Spain and Latin America are popular tourist destinations, and speaking Spanish can enhance career prospects in the tourism industry.

• Media and Journalism: Knowledge of Spanish allows you to report on events from Spanish-speaking countries and work with international media outlets.