Header Image 1

Spanish

What is A-Level Spanish?

A-Level Spanish opens the door to one of the world’s most widely spoken languages, used by over 400 million people across 25 nations, including Spain, much of South America, parts of the United States, and even the Philippines.

Spanish is one of the top five languages in global business, making it a valuable skill for future career opportunities. Through this course, you’ll build on your GCSE knowledge, improving your fluency and grammar while gaining a deeper understanding of the culture, society, and history of Spanish-speaking countries.

What Will You Study in A-Level Spanish?

During the A-Level Spanish course, you will explore a rich variety of topics that provide insight into the culture, history, and social issues of Spanish-speaking countries. From traditional values to contemporary challenges, the course covers themes that help you understand the diversity and vibrancy of the Hispanic world.

Key areas of study include:

  • Society and Culture: Modern and traditional values, regional festivals, cultural heritage, and the influence of technology.
  • Equality and Rights: Immigration, racism, integration, and equal rights.
  • Politics and Power: Political participation among young people, monarchies and dictatorships, and popular movements.
  • Arts and Media: Modern-day idols in cinema and music, as well as the analysis of a Spanish work of literature and a Spanish film.

This course not only deepens your linguistic skills but also gives you a broader understanding of life in Spanish-speaking countries.

What Next after Completing A-Level Spanish?

Studying Spanish A-Level opens up a wealth of opportunities for both further education and future careers. Employers value language skills highly, and universities respect the dedication and wide-ranging abilities gained through studying a modern language. A-Level Spanish equips you with transferable skills that can enhance any career path or degree programme.

Many of our students continue their language studies at university, either as a single subject or as part of a combined degree. In the past, students have successfully pursued courses such as:

Languages with other disciplines:

  • Business
  • Zoology
  • Linguistics
  • Drama
  • Economics
  • Law
  • History
  • Physics
  • Medicine

Specialist language degrees:

  • Spanish or other Modern Languages
  • Combined language programmes

The Spanish A-Level programme provides a sound foundation for diverse careers in sectors like business, education, international relations, and science. It's an excellent stepping stone to working in an increasingly globalised world.

What is the Exam Board for A-Level Spanish?

The Spanish A-Level course is assessed by the AQA exam board, known for its thorough and well-structured evaluation methods. This ensures students are well-prepared for exams and future academic or professional pathways.

What are the Entry Requirements for A-Level Spanish?

To enrol on the A-Level Spanish programme, you’ll need at least five GCSEs at grade 5 or above, including a grade 6 in Spanish.

At Cardinal Newman, we also offer a Mixed Programme option. This allows you to combine A-Levels with BTEC qualifications, providing a flexible pathway for students who may not be on track to achieve all five grade 5s.