German is spoken by over 130 million speakers and, due to the size and importance of its economy, is one of the most commonly used languages in business. At a time of considerable political change in Europe and against the back-drop of a national decline in language learners, we recognise the wide-ranging benefits which learning a foreign language brings. Skills acquired in learning an A level language are valued by universities and employers. Languages are used and can be helpful in lots of different jobs not only translation, interpreting or teaching. In fact, many employers reward people with language skills with extra salary because they know they are essential in today’s international business world. Therefore, we aim to dispel the myth that English is enough.

❝You can never understand one language until you understand at least two.❞

‒Geoffrey Willans

For German A level, students study a range of topics from two themes: Social Issues and Trends and Political, Intellectual and Artistic Culture. Issues range from The Digital World to Cultural Life and from Multiculturalism to Politics. Students also study a novel and a film and conduct an individual research project. There is an emphasis on grammar throughout.

Teachers are experienced subject-specialists who use a variety of authentic and up-to-date resources. There is an emphasis on discussion, reading, debating, vocabulary building, listening, translation, grammar and essay writing.

There are three papers at the end of Year 13: a listening, reading and translation paper, a writing paper including an essay on the set text and film and a speaking examination.

Entry Requirements

A grade 6 in the relevant language at GCSE.