Sixth Form Entry Requirements 2024
The general minimum entry requirements to study four AS course are six GCSEs at 5 or above, including Grade 5 in English Language and Mathematics.
The requirements for BTEC Level 3 are five GCSEs at Grade 5 or above including 5 in English Language and Mathematics.
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Subjects Offered at Bentley Wood High School Sixth Form. Please click the subject below to find out more about the subject
Is Art and Design the subject for you?
Yes, if you wish to study art, craft and design at a higher level usually at Art College or are looking to take up careers for which an art background is relevant. For example careers in advertising, publishing, architecture, design, fashion design, textiles, museums, theatre or education. Fine Art is also suitable for students who have an interest and an aptitude for the subject but do not intend to study it further. The skills developed within this subject are highly transferable and will tell future Universities and employers that you are a creative thinker and a versatile worker.
Course content
The main purpose of any course in art, craft and design is to develop your ability to appreciate the visual world and to respond in a personal and creative way. The skills you will develop will be varied. Among them, you will develop a working knowledge of materials, practices and technology in one or more of your ideas and feelings using art, craft and design.
Methods of study
How will it be examined?
AS qualification will not count towards the final grade of an A Level and will be a separate qualification in its own right (Linear).
Career opportunities
Is Graphic Communication the subject for you?
Are you creative and imaginative? Do you enjoy exploring ideas and looking at things in different ways? If so, you should consider a course in graphic communication. You will enjoy developing your understanding of the visual world, learning practical skills and responding to ideas and issues in ways that are personal to you.
Graphic communication will give you the skills to produce personal creative work and develop your understanding of graphic design. You will develop your knowledge of materials and techniques, and the skills to communicate ideas and information visually. It will help you to develop an effective personal visual language and develop your understanding of historical and contemporary influences on design. Graphic communication opens the door to a large number of fascinating and rewarding specialisms and careers in industry, commerce and the media.
At A-level for component 1 you will develop work for a personal investigation into an idea, issue, concept or theme supported by written material. This will count for 60% of your total A-level marks. In component 2 you will produce personal work in response to one of eight exciting starting points which will count for 40% of your total A-level marks.
Advertising • Animator • Designer for film and television • Exhibition designer • Graphic designer • Illustrator • Interior and spatial design • Marketing • Publishing • Production designer • Scientific or medical illustrator • Studio manager • Teacher • Typographer • Web and app designer
Is Biology the subject for you?
Yes, if you are a person who has an interest in the living world that surrounds you. Yes, if you want to develop a deep understanding of the organization and working of living organisms and systems. Yes, if you want to be involved in high level experimental and investigative work and develop and develop an extended understanding of the link between theory and scientific method. The aims of this course are to encourage students to:
In Year 12 students study four units; lifestyle, health and risk; genes and health, voice of the genome and biodiversity and natural resources. 9 core practicals are carried out throughout the year. In year 13 students study a further four units; on the wild side; immunity, infection and forensics; run for your life and grey matter. A further 9 core practicals are carried out throughout the year.
Students will learn to describe, explain and interpret phenomena and effects in terms of Biological principles and concepts, presenting arguments and ideas clearly and logically. The lessons will vary in style from practical and student centred investigations to demonstrations and teacher investigations.
Two exams of 90 minutes each will be sat at the end of year 12. This AS qualification will not count towards the final grade of an A Level and be a separate qualification in its own right (Linear).
Most universities offer Biology as a single or joint honours degree. Biology combines well with other science subjects and often provides a background to careers in medicine, nursing, veterinary science, environmental science, physiotherapy, food science, science research, pharmacology and teaching.
Is Chemistry the subject for you?
Studying Chemistry provides you with a privileged insight to the processes that define our everyday world. The skills you will develop as a chemist are highly transferable enabling you to continue your academic trajectory in a multitude of different fields. You will use and develop powers of critical and creative thinking and demonstrate your chemical knowledge through a diverse range of practical experiments.
The course allows you to develop a myriad of skills in the classroom by seamlessly integrating these throughout the course topics. These can be in the form of practical work as well as presentational skills. Learning is sequenced to allow you to cumulatively build on your knowledge and take ownership of your learning as you progress from topic to topic. The innovative nature of Chemistry means that this field is constantly evolving, and our students are encouraged to complement their learning with wider, up-to-date research in order to expand their contextual appreciation of the subject.
Chemistry lessons are varied however, we aim to incorporate as many practical experiences as part of our lessons as possible. This is so that students can appreciate the concomitant link between theoretical chemical work and experimental research. This is particularly crucial for those continuing with scientific learning in higher education. You will receive regular feedback from class teachers throughout your studies and will also evaluate your learning through peer assessment, group work, class discussions, presentations, experimentation and research.
Our exam board is AQA and our students complete the Linear Chemistry qualification; the AS qualification will not count towards the final grade of an A Level. However, there are opportunities throughout the course for learning to be regularly examined and for you to reflect on where your learning currently stands and how to make progress going forward.
A qualification in Chemistry is in high demand and will set you apart in any field you continue your studies in. Many courses such as medicine, engineering and dentistry require an A Level in Chemistry as a prerequisite for the course. What careers could you consider in the future with chemistry? Analytical Chemistry, Banking, Atmospheric Chemistry, Engineering, Forensic Science, Marine Chemistry, Medicinal Chemistry, Accounting, Medicine, Veterinary Medicine, and Patent Attorney – these are just a few! Many employers value the analytical and creative problem solving skills that are developed at Chemistry A-level.
Is Classical Civilisation the subject for you?
This course appeals to those who are interested in everything: literature, history, politics, art, architecture, anthropology and drama, to name but a few. If you like all these things, or are struggling to whittle down your subject choices, Classical Civilisation might be the perfect fit as it encompasses elements of so many subjects. We study the Ancient World, its people, its history and its stories. It is infinitely fascinating as it teaches us so much about the world we live in today and about the human condition, which remains unchanged. In studying the past, students of Classical Civilisation are rational and lateral thinkers; the subject teaches you how to think deeply on a range of subjects. It is a fascinating choice at A Level and well respected by universities.
3 modules: The World of the Hero (we study The Odyssey and The Aeneid), Greek Theatre and Love and Relationships in the Ancient Word. We read two epics, 3 plays and a wide range of extracts from longer texts pertaining to all kinds of relationships.
AS qualification will not count towards the final grade of an A Level and be a separate qualification in its own right (Linear). There will be on exam on each of the three modules at the end of the course.
This subject is so wide ranging that it supports the study of many others such as History, English, Drama, Politics and Sociology. The course has been designed to support progression to further education where one may continue to study Classical Civilisation or may progress to learning the ancient languages in addition. Being such a broad subject that requires an eye for fine details many Classical Civilisation students go on to study law, to teach, to progress to academia, to work in archaeology or the museum sector, media and television and journalism. Classical Civilisation is a firm foundation for any career, especially those in the arts.
Is Computing the subject for you?
The course is not just about learning to use tools or training in a programming language. At its core will be an emphasis on computational thinking. Computational thinking is a kind of reasoning used by both humans and machines. The course is not about learning to use tools or just training in a programming language.
The course covers a range of topics including software and its development, types of programming languages, programming and problem solving and pattern recognition, abstraction and decomposition.
Students will learn about computing concepts theoretically and practically. Lessons will vary from week to week and practical work will be completed frequently including a programming project. Students also have the opportunity to research and present findings back to the class as well as delivering topics themselves to other students.
AS qualification will not count towards the final grade of an A Level and be a separate qualification in its own right (Linear).
This specification has been designed for students who wish to go on to higher education courses or employment where knowledge of computing would be beneficial. One can study computing and go on to a career in medicine, law, business, engineering or any type of Science. This course, with its emphasis on abstract thinking, general problem solving, algorithmic and mathematical reasoning, scientific and engineering-based thinking, is a good foundation for further study.
Is Economics the subject for you?
Do you fancy yourself as the next George Osborne? Economics could be the answer! An understanding of Economics will provide you with a new way of approaching almost any problem. The most valuable skill you will learn is how to think critically. As an Economist you will understand virtually all things occurring in the business and political environments and be able to critically evaluate various options. For some of you this will provide a solid business foundation and create the ability to move into any of the more specific business fields such as finance or marketing. For others this will offer a better understanding of the overall economy and the possible impact of various government policies. You will soon learn that Economics is everywhere and affects everyone!
Students study the following 4 topics during the course; Competitive Markets, Managing the Economy, Business Economics and Economic Efficiency, and The Global Economy
What can you do with an A level in Economics? The skill set acquired by an Economics is transferable to virtually any job. Statistics show that the majority of Economics students after graduation obtain employment within six months of graduating! Management consulting, banking, financial securities and commodities brokers and market research analysts are just a small sample of the job opportunities in the private sector. Other roles that Economics graduates regularly go into include management consultancy, journalism, human resource management and public sector work.
Is English Literature the subject for you?
If you enjoy reading and want to study a wide range of literature from past and present, then this is the course for you. There will be plenty of opportunities to discuss texts at length and read the views of others, before arriving at your own conclusions about characters, themes and the writer’s craft. You will be encouraged to think for yourself, to use textual evidence to support your ideas and to evaluate contextual significance.
Students will study a combination of novels, drama texts including Shakespeare, and poetry, learning to engage creatively and apply their knowledge of literary analysis in discussions and in writing. Texts will cover a wide range of periods from pre-1900 right up to the 21st Century. Lessons will vary, incorporating group and class discussions, presentations, group drama performances, analysis of DVDs based on texts, as well as study days and theatre visits as appropriate.
Most assessment is through examination, but there is a coursework element analysing and comparing novels from different time periods.
Students with AS or Advanced GCE English Literature have a wide range of possible career and higher education opportunities. You will learn and use a wide variety of transferable skills during the course. These include writing for a variety of purposes, expressing informed and independent opinions and identifying key links between different parts of the subject. These skills are in demand from employers, universities and colleges and are also valuable in their own right. In particular, the qualification can lead to opportunities in a variety of areas such as journalism, writing, teaching, the media or law.
Is Geography the subject for you?
Geography teaches us about the fascinating and fast changing world in which we live. Geographers also acquire a vast range of valuable skills, such as: map reading; spatial awareness; problem solving; data analysis; the ability to consider other viewpoints; decision making; team work; environmental awareness; computer skills and essay writing. It is for these reasons that the majority of geographers go on to further study and employment.
In Year 12 students study: tectonic processes and hazards, coastal landscapes and change, globalisations and diverse places. In Year 13 students study: water cycle and water insecurity, health, human rights and intervention, superpowers, carbon cycle and energy security.
Geography is also a varied and exciting subject that offers the chance to learn through the use of maps, videos, fieldwork, photographs and data, as well as text.
AS qualification will count towards the final grade of an A Level (Legacy).
Geography graduates are extremely employable thanks to the range of skills they develop. Geographers are able to balance the use of statistics, numerical data and ICT with written and oral reports and group work. Possible careers include; environmental science, consultancy, surveying, town planning, aid work overseas, travel and tourism, meteorology, architecture, law and teaching.
Is Government and Politics the subject for you?
If you love to debate, discuss and argue, then Politics is for you! People disagree about many things such as ‘How should people live?’ ‘What rules or principles should guide our behaviour?’ ‘How should power and resources be distributed?’ ‘How should society be organised?’ In this subject you will consider all these questions and many more. This subject is suited for you if you have an interest in the world around you; if you want to know more about the society you live in and the institutions that have ruled your life ever since you were born.
Politics is not a subject of absolute rights or absolute wrongs; it is a subject of rival viewpoints and competing opinions. The challenge of politics is to develop your own views and opinions in light of the viewpoints and perspectives available to you. This means, above all, thinking for yourself.
In Year 12 students study two broad themes; People and Politics and Governing the UK. In People and Politics you will study Democracy and Political Participation, Party Policies and Ideas, Elections and Pressure Groups. In Governing the UK you will study The Constitution, Parliament, The Prime Minister and Judges and Civil Liberties. In Year 13 students study two themes covering politics in the USA. In Representative Processes in the USA we examine the US political system and consider how democratic it really is. In Governing the USA we examine the institutional framework of the US government and considers the interrelationship between its legislative, executive and judicial processes and the health of federalism
Students will learn through teacher led sessions as well as student presentations. Discussion and debate will be at the very heart of lessons, so student input is vital to the running of a successful lesson. Students will learn how to critically analyse articles and journals from broadsheet newspapers such as The Times, The Guardian and The Independent, as well as reading Politics Review. Students will also learn to objectively scrutinise political television programmes such as Panorama, Question Time and The Daily Politics Show as well as listening to Westminster Hour on Radio 4. Essay writing practice will be integral to this course; you will learn how to write clear, well structured essays in order to ensure you achieve your very best in this subject.
According to the official UK statistics, last year ‘property development, renting, business and research activities’ recruited the highest number of Politics graduates, with ‘public administration, defence, and social services’ second. Politics is particularly useful if you are considering a career in Law, Business/Retail Management, the Media or Civil Service. However the knowledge and skills which the study of Politics will give you, will be welcomed by any employer. Do not just consider the usefulness of the subject, you may simply be interested in learning about Politics and attracted by a new challenge.
Is Health and Social Care the subject for you?
This course will appeal to those students who:
In Year 12 students study –
In Year 13 students study –
You will gain a broad understanding and develop skills required for health and social care environments. You will have an opportunity to apply learning in a practical and realistic way, whilst following a programme of study that enables progression to both higher education and employment in health and social care. The course will help you develop key skills that are highly valued by employers and universities and gain confidence by developing independent learning skills. The course involves one day of work experience per week for the whole academic year. It is also co-delivered with Whitmore High School. You will have two days a week attending Bentley Wood and two days attending Whitmore High School.
This Extended Diploma is equivalent to three A Levels and will be assessed via controlled assessment and examination.
When you have finished the course you may choose to go into full- time employment or university
Is History the subject for you?
If you like to think critically, to argue differing viewpoints and to know that there isn’t always a right answer then History is for you. All we ask is that you are enthusiastic with a positive approach to learning. The current pass rate is 100% and our A2 students last year gained 100% pass grades A-C grades, while our AS students gained 100% pass grades and 90% A—C grades. History is for you if you enjoy learning about the past. To understand the past you will come to a far better understanding of the present.
The focus will be on Early Modern and Modern History. Component 1 is a Breadth Study and students will investigate The Tudors in England from 1485-1603. Component 2 is a Depth Study and students will investigate Democracy and Nazism: Germany 1918-1945 . These will be examined in May/June by completing two papers each of two hours and thirty minutes.
You will learn how to write clear, well-argued essays and how to organize, present and research. Skills of interpretation and evaluation will be developed throughout the course. You will learn through a variety of teaching methods including role play, video, student presentations study visits and debates.
AS qualification will not count towards the final grade of an A Level and be a separate qualification in its own right (Linear). AS exam 2 x paper 1 hour 30 minutes A Level exam 2 x papers 2 hours 30 minutes.
History also offers students the opportunity to acquire and improve on many of the key skills which have been identified as a priority for Higher Education after consultation with employers. It may surprise you to learn that historians do, in fact, provide more directors of Britain’s leading companies in proportion to the number of graduates than any other subject, outperforming law, science and engineering. History can open doors to a whole range of careers but in particular it suites; research, law, public services, social work, leisure and tourism, marketing, journalism and all forms of media, theatre and film. There are a number of websites and television channels dedicated to History. You may even want to become a History teacher.
Is Mathematics the subject for you?
Do you enjoy analysing and solving problems? Do you enjoy the challenge of finding a solution involving many logical applications and steps? Do you have a love of algebra? If the answer is yes, then mathematics is definitely the subject for you.
Mathematics is a very practical subject; it is not about learning facts or writing essays. You will learn by problem solving, working both independently and in groups, to find the best route to a solution. The use of graphical calculators enhances the approaches to teaching and learning and the quality of students’ involvement, interaction, and appreciation for the subject. Communicating in writing and in discussion, using the unique language of mathematics is crucial.
AS qualification will not count towards the final grade of an A Level and will be a separate qualification in its own right (Linear). Your AS grade will be based on two exams (one Pure and one Applied). Grade at A2 will be based on 3 exams (2 Pure and one Applied). Your teachers will also be assessing your progress throughout the academic year with chapter tests and mock exams.
A qualification in Mathematics is very valuable as a supporting subject at A Level and degree level, especially in the sciences and geography, psychology, sociology and medical courses. A full A level Mathematics is a much sought-after qualification for entry to a wide variety of full-time courses in higher education. Mathematics is a very powerful A level to have. The skills developed in mathematics are highly regarded by many universities and employers. Good Mathematics qualifications open the windows of opportunity for a much wider choice of very exciting careers. They could lead to a career in medicine, teaching, accountancy, finance, business, architecture, aeronautics, economics, computer science, engineering, meteorology and many more.
Useful websites:
General Information to student & parents from Pearson: https://qualifications.pearson.com/en/support/support-for-you/students.html
Specifications:
Additional resources & videos:
Is Further Mathematics the subject for you?
Further Mathematics is offered to those who achieve a grade 8 or 9 at GCSE and are also going to study A level Mathematics. This option would be beneficial for students wanting to study maths/science/computing based subjects at some of the top universities. If you wish to study Further Maths, you must choose Maths and Further Maths in two option blocks.
You can choose to complete the full Further Maths A level course consisting of 4 components: 2 Core Pure Maths components, which are compulsory and 2 additional components. At BW we offer Further Statistics & Further Mechanics as the additional options.
You will be taking the full A level Maths in Year 12 and completing all 4 components of the Further Maths in Year 13.
The study of Pure mathematics develops logical thinking and a systematic approach to problem solving. Most problems will focus on how the methods learnt can be applied in the areas of engineering and computing. The use of graphical calculators will enhance students’ appreciation for the subject.
Your teachers will also be assessing your progress throughout the academic year with chapter tests and mock exams.
Those students who have studied for an AS or A level in Further mathematics will have had the opportunity to study more applied mathematics modules than those with just the single A level mathematics. This highlights the worth of the Further Mathematics qualification for those students who wish to study for Mathematics, Physics and Engineering & Computing degrees at university. The study of Pure mathematics develops logical thinking and a systematic approach to problem solving – attributes which are highly valued in the workplace. It is desirable qualification for Oxbridge candidates.
Is Philosophy the subject for you?
Philosophy is a subject for those who like asking “why”. In Philosophy we don’t tend to deal with questions that have easy answers. If you feel comfortable questioning your long held assumptions, are a reflective person, and have an imagination, Philosophy may well be the subject for you! The study of Philosophy will provide you with fresh and interesting perspectives on the world around you.
In the AS year we cover ‘Epistemology’ and ‘Philosophy of Religion’. In the first unit we examine where ideas and knowledge come from. Does knowledge come from Reason (like Maths) or our senses (like Science)? Can we know anything at all? Do we perceive the world as it really is and how does perception work? In the second unit we examine questions which you were introduced to in your GCSE in much more detail. Is there any good reason to believe a God exists? Does morality come from a God’s decisions, or are things good and bad independently of God? In A2 we study ‘Philosophy of Mind’ and ‘Ethics.’ In Philosophy of Mind we examine what consciousness might be. Consciousness is still one of the biggest mysteries of Philosophy and Science. What is the Mind? Is it a non- physical ‘soul’? What is the relationship between mind and brain? Can we create computers that think (Artificial Intelligence)? In ‘Ethics’, the rational study of morality and values, we study theories of morality. We apply these theories to things like war, crime and punishment, simulated killing (in computer games and films), and the status of animals
The ability to express oneself in both written and verbal contexts is essential in the study of Philosophy. Dialogue is vital and you will be trained to argue in a constructive, logical manner. Exams are in the form of shorter questions, and longer essays. You will spend a lot of time prior to exams “translating” philosophical ideas and expressing them in your own terms. You will read some of the greatest thinkers of all time, as well as the excellent textbook.
Philosophy is offered at most Universities and tends to attract smart, imaginative people. It is often combined with another subject, such as English, Psychology, Law, Politics, Science, History and many more. Philosophy doesn’t equip you for just one role in life, but gives you important skills highly prized in many roles. For example, Philosophers are taught to think and reason better, to analyse, to evaluate, and to write and speak articulately. They can think sharply and clearly about issues they confront. It’s like a course in intellectual self-defence! Employers value philosophy students’ ability to think quickly. Philosophy students often find themselves working in sectors as diverse as medicine, law, business, politics, and media.
Is Physics the subject for you?
If you are the sort of person who likes to ask questions about the world around you, is interested in the way that things work and has a curiosity about the world and the Universe then Physics is definitely for you. Physics is about making observations and explaining why events and strange phenomena. You will enjoy solving problems in a variety of areas, working in a team and having a shared purpose with others.
The course not only includes the study of the laws, theories and models of Physics but also the application of these to the modern world. From waves to radioactivity, mechanics to electricity and many things beyond.
Physics lessons are varied and include peer teaching, peer assessment, group work, class discussions (you will be expected to talk), presentations, experimentation, research and watching DVDs of experiments. Understanding of some aspects of physics is achieved through the application of mathematics.
Physics A-level helps to develop strong numerical, analytical and logical skills, and there is a perception that physicists are very able students. Clearly, Physics A-level is an important qualification for many university courses and careers. Obvious examples are any form of engineering and many technical and ‘hi-tech’ courses and careers. More broadly, employers in general value the skills developed in Physics A-level very highly, and Physics can open many employment doors in business and banking, for example. Furthermore, there is currently a severe shortage of physicists and an even more severe shortage of female physicists, and young people with physics backgrounds are very much in demand. This means that universities are especially keen to receive applications from Alevel physicists. At a time when many schools do not provide A-level physics and still relatively few girls take it as an option, those that do place themselves at a significant advantage.
Is Psychology the subject for you?
Yes, if you are interested in studying and researching human behaviour such as memory, obedience, prejudice and attachment. If you enjoy thinking critically about ideas that you are presented with and carrying out your own practical investigations. If you are interested in developing a range of transferable skills such as essay writing, presentation skills and data analysis.
AS: Students will study Social Influence, Memory, Attachment, Psychopathology, Research Methods, Approaches and Biopsychology A2: Students will study Relationships, Aggression, Eating Behaviour, Issues and Debates and develop their understanding of Approaches, Biopsychology and Research Methods. AS Psychology is examined by two papers at the end of the first year. A’ level psychology is assessed via three papers at the end of the two year course.
A range of methods of study are used including group work, discussions, presentations, peer teaching and independent study. You will be expected to take an active part in lessons as well as complete regular homework and assessment activities.
Studying Psychology provides an excellent grounding for numerous careers including human resources, advertising, law and social work. It is viewed favourably by employers as employees who have studied Psychology have a range of transferable skills such as the ability to communicate effectively, think critically, work in a team and analyse information (both written and numerical) as well as have a greater understanding of human behaviour. Most universities offer a range of Psychology degrees, both single and joint honours. Most Psychology degrees will have similar content in the first year and then allow students to specialise in later years. In order to qualify as a Psychologist you will need to undertake further postgraduate study to Masters or PhD level. You can find out more information about careers in Psychology by looking at the British Psychological Society website – www.bps.org.uk
Is Sociology the subject for you?
Yes, if you are interested in studying and researching how society works? Why does society treat you differently because of your gender; class; culture? Is everyone able to access education freely? Why is crime and deviance on the increase in certain areas?
Students study three units in total. At AS level students focus on studying education, families and households and research methods. Students address questions such as ‘does belonging to a different social class/ethnicity affect your right to education?” “Why does birth rate change across different social groups?”. Other options include culture and identity, and wealth, poverty and welfare.
At A’ level students study education, beliefs in society – where they look at the relationship between different social groups and religious organisations and movements. Crime and deviance involves looking at the social distribution of crime according to age, gender, ethnicity and social class. The theory and methods unit involves looking at the nature of science and the extent to which sociology can be regarded as scientific.
AS Sociology will be examined by two papers at the end of the AS year. A’ level sociology will be examined by three papers at the end of the two year course.
Studying Sociology provides an excellent grounding for numerous careers including human resources, advertising, law and social work. Most universities offer a range of Sociology degrees, both single and joint honours. Most sociology degrees will have similar content in the first year and then allow students to specialise in later years.
Is Spanish the subject for you?
¡Sí, claro!…….if you enjoy learning languages, traveling and meeting people from different places, and learning about a different way of life. You will be learning advanced vocabulary and grammar to give you freedom to express yourself when speaking and writing in Spanish. There will be plenty of opportunities to have debates about different issues in the news; we will be reading Spanish newspapers, watching the Spanish news etc. By the end of the two year course you will be able to communicate fluently in Spanish.
This course has been designed to give you a profound understanding of Spanish. Not only will you know more about the mechanics of the language – like grammar and vocabulary – but also about how the people live and use language on a day to day basis.
We will combine the use of a text book, AQA Spanish for A Level, with many other resources such as newspaper articles, website articles, videos, Spanish songs, films, books, etc. To develop your linguistic skills lessons will be conducted in Spanish and you are expected to contribute and participate by speaking in Spanish to your peers and teachers. Students are expected to do independent study every week which should be recorded and signed by your teacher. This could be through activities such as revision and exam practice, listening to Spanish audio extracts, reading a Spanish book or magazine, watching a film, researching on a website, etc. You will also have opportunities to enrich your studies further by participating in or leading extra-curricular MFL activities in the whole school, and taking part in trips and outings relevant to Spanish language, culture and society.
Apart from being beneficial at a personal level, your A level in Spanish can help with quite a few career paths. For those who want to specialise in language, there’s teaching, translation and interpreting. Or maybe you want to work in the travel and tourism industry. But even as, say, an engineer or designer, being proficient in a language will give you broader career options. Students find that languages are a natural fit for many subjects, enabling them to use their skills and qualifications to apply to university and access career opportunities at home and abroad. Travel – so the saying goes – broadens your mind; and never more so than when you can speak the language. That way you’ll be able to find out what the local people are thinking, how they live… and how their culture really works
Below is a general guide to Advanced level subjects needed for certain degree courses at universities and colleges of higher education. The list below is a guide and is not comprehensive; nor should the information be interpreted too literally – these are merely guidelines.
