Apply Now
Header Image 1

Spanish

Why study Spanish?

Spanish is one of the most widely spoken languages in the world, with over 500 million speakers across Europe, Latin America, and the United States.

Studying Spanish opens doors to diverse cultures, international travel, and a broad range of career opportunities. It also enhances your communication, critical thinking, and intercultural understanding — skills highly valued by universities and employers.

Course overview

This AQA A-level course builds on GCSE Spanish and aims to develop fluency, spontaneity and a deeper understanding of the Spanish-speaking world.
You will study:

  • Social issues and trends: family structures, cyberspace, gender equality
  • Artistic culture: regional identity, heritage, music, cinema
  • Immigration and multiculturalism in Hispanic society
  • Aspects of political life: Franco’s dictatorship, the transition to democracy,
  • youth movements

You will also study one Spanish-language film (Volver) and one play (Las Bicicletas Son Para El Verano) and undertake an Independent Research Project on a topic of your choice related to the Hispanic world. You’ll gain skills in listening, reading, writing, speaking, translation, analysis, and independent research — all through the lens of real-world issues and cultural
study.

How is the course assessed?
  • Paper 1: Listening, Reading & Writing (2 hours 30 mins) – 50% Includes comprehension tasks and translation into English and Spanish.
  • Paper 2: Writing (2 hours) – 20% Two essays, one on the film and one on the novel.
  • Paper 3: Speaking (21–23 minutes, including 5 minutes prep) – 30% A discussion based on a stimulus card and your Independent Research Project presentation and conversation.
What will I do in lessons?

Lessons are varied and engaging, focusing on:

  • Speaking and conversation practice
  • Grammar and vocabulary building
  • Listening and reading activities using authentic sources
  • Cultural exploration through music, film, and literature
  • Essay writing, translation, and exam preparation

You’ll be encouraged to express opinions, debate current issues, and connect personally with the topics you study.

What Independent study will be expected?

Expect to spend around 4–5 hours per week outside of class on:

  • Vocabulary learning and grammar revision
  • Listening and reading tasks using authentic Spanish media
  • Essay writing and exam practice
  • Research for your Independent Research Project
  • Reviewing lesson content and preparing for speaking tasks

You will have access to digital platforms, film/literature guides, and AQA resources.

Exam Board

AQA
Link to specification

GCSE entry requirements:

  • 5 in Mathematics required
  • 6 in English Language required
  • 6 in Spanish required
What A Levels go well with this one?

Spanish pairs well with a wide range of subjects, including:

  • English Literature or Language
  • History
  • Politics
  • Psychology
  • Geography
  • Economics
  • Another language
  • Sciences or Maths for students considering international or interdisciplinary
    careers
What can I do beyond A Levels with this subject?

Studying Spanish at A Level opens a wide variety of options, including:

  • Degrees in Modern Languages, Spanish & Latin American Studies, or European Politics
  • Combined degrees like Law with Spanish, Business with Spanish, or International Relations
  • Careers in translation, interpreting, journalism, tourism, diplomacy, teaching,
  • and more Opportunities to study or work in Spain or Latin America, including internships and volunteering abroad

Languages graduates are in high demand and often stand out in the job market.

Frequently asked questions

Is the course very grammar-heavy?

Grammar is taught clearly and regularly — it supports your confidence in writing and speaking.

Will I need to speak in every lesson?

Yes, but it’s in a supportive environment. Your speaking skills will grow naturally over time.

Do I need to know about Spanish-speaking countries already?

No – the course will introduce you to a rich variety of cultural, historical, and political topics from Spain and Latin America.

Is the literature hard?

Challenging at times, but taught in an accessible and engaging way. Many students find the texts rewarding and thought-provoking.

Is there a trip?

We tend to run a 5–6-day trip to Spain at the beginning of Yr 13 and subject-related events in London in both years.

 

 

 

Back