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Spanish
Study every aspect of the Spanish language and its culture. You’ll also study a Spanish novel and film.
Why study Spanish?
If you choose to study Spanish, you’ll be joining 580 million other people around the world who speak it as their first language. It’s the official language in no less than 20 countries. Its culture is celebrated and loved the world over. There is a real joy in being able to communicate with people from countries very different to your own.
What will I study?
A-level Spanish involves the study of all aspects of Spanish vocabulary and grammar. You’ll focus on the key skills of speaking, listening, reading and writing. You’ll study such topics as the changing role of women, the conquest of South America and dictatorships in the Hispanic world. You’ll study the novel Como Agua para Chocolate (Like Water for Chocolate) by Laura Esquivel and the film El Laberinto del Fauno (Pan’s Labyrinth), directed by Guillermo del Toro.
Entry requirements
6 or above in Spanish
Which exam board & how will I be assessed?
AQA .
There are two written exams and an oral.
Paper 1 is worth 50%, Paper 2 is worth 20% and the oral is worth 30% of the final mark.
Where could it take me?
The ability to speak Spanish gives you a sought after (and increasingly rare!) skill which can be useful in many occupations. You will be able to apply for any Spanish or combined honours degree at any university. Many students apply for courses such as international law or international business where knowledge of a second language is central.
Our students go on to work in careers in translation and work in the travel and tourism sector. Careers in teaching, publishing, HR, and journalism are also open to you. But we also have former students of the department who are doctors, dentists and vets!
Subject combinations
Students frequently combine Spanish with French, History, all English courses, Law, Psychology, Business Studies, and Sociology. But we’ve had many students who have successfully combined Spanish with A-levels in science and/or Maths.
What support is available?
One-to-one support is always available whenever you need it. We offer weekly ‘catch up’ sessions for anyone who needs a bit of extra help. You will have weekly conversation classes with our Spanish assistant and a small group of other students. We have an excellent range of resources on paper and online for you to use.
What extracurricular activity is available?
We run regular trips to Home in Manchester where there are great opportunities to watch films and listen to lectures about all things Spanish. We did a wonderful dance workshop at Winstanley College where we learned to dance the Flamenco, and visited Madrid last year in a joint trip with the art department. We also recently enjoyed a wonderful trip to London to see an exhibition of the work of Frida Kahlo.
Did you know?
Some scientists suggest that learning a foreign language improves your memory, problem solving skills, concentration, and listening skills! Some suggest it even holds back the ageing process!
