Learning
Spanish

Text

Text

Studying Spanish in the Sixth Form at The King David High School allows students to develop advanced language skills while exploring the cultures, societies and political contexts of the Spanish-speaking world. 

The course builds fluency in speaking, listening, reading and writing Spanish, while encouraging students to analyse authentic texts, films and cultural materials. Students develop the confidence to express ideas clearly in Spanish and engage with contemporary social and cultural issues. 

Learning Spanish also strengthens intercultural awareness and communication skills, preparing students to participate in an increasingly global and interconnected world. 

 

Course Overview 

A Level Spanish (AQA) 

Students follow the AQA A Level Spanish specification over two years. The course develops both linguistic accuracy and cultural understanding through the study of themes related to modern Spanish-speaking societies. 

Students benefit from small class sizes and specialist teaching, enabling them to develop their confidence and independence as language learners. 

 

Areas of Study 

Students explore a range of topics that form the basis of the final examinations. 

Social Issues and Trends 

Students study contemporary social themes affecting Spanish-speaking societies, exploring changing values, social developments and cultural identity. 

Political and Artistic Culture 

Students examine aspects of Spanish-speaking culture including political developments, artistic movements and cultural expression. 

Literary Texts and Film 

Students analyse a Spanish literary text and a film, developing their ability to evaluate themes, characters and cultural contexts while strengthening their analytical writing. 

Grammar and Language Development 

Throughout the course, students refine their knowledge of grammar and vocabulary in order to communicate confidently and accurately in a variety of contexts. 

 

Assessment 

A Level Spanish is assessed through three externally examined papers at the end of the two-year course. 

These assessments evaluate students’ ability to: 

  • Understand spoken and written Spanish 

  • Communicate effectively in spoken and written Spanish 

  • Translate between Spanish and English

  • Analyse literary and cultural material 

Students also complete an individual research project, which forms part of the speaking examination and allows them to investigate a topic related to Spanish-speaking culture or society. 

 

Skills Developed

Studying Spanish develops a wide range of transferable skills that are highly valued by universities and employers.

Students develop: 

  • Advanced communication and language skills 

  • Cultural awareness and global understanding 

  • Critical thinking and analytical skills 

  • Confidence in discussion and debate 

  • Independent research and presentation skills 

 

 

Enrichment Opportunities 

Students studying Spanish are encouraged to engage with language and culture beyond the classroom through a variety of enrichment opportunities, including: 

  • Spanish language clubs and conversation practice 

  • Film screenings of Spanish-language cinema 

  • Cultural events celebrating traditions from Spanish-speaking countries 

  • Participation in national language competitions 

  • Opportunities to attend educational visits and cultural experiences 

These activities help students develop confidence in using the language while deepening their cultural understanding. 

 

Progression and Career Pathways 

Language skills are increasingly valued in a global economy and open doors to a wide range of career opportunities. 

Students studying Spanish may pursue careers in areas such as: 

  • Translation and interpreting 

  • Diplomacy and international relations 

  • International business and finance 

  • Marketing and journalism 

  • Tourism and hospitality 

  • Education and teaching 

  • Government and public service 

Many students choose to continue studying Spanish at university or combine it with other subjects as part of a joint honours degree. 

 

Teaching Staff 

Mrs C. Ackers – Head of Modern Foreign Languages, Teacher of French and Spanish 

Mrs L. Goodall – Teacher of Spanish and Italian 

Mr J. Ratcliffe – Teacher of English and Spanish 

Mr C. Stockley – Teacher of Physical Education and Spanish 

 

Contact 

For further information about studying Spanish in the Sixth Form, please contact the Modern Foreign Languages department via the school office.