German AS/A Level

By the end of this course, you won’t just be learning German — you’ll be using it. You’ll be able to hold conversations on a wide range of topics with native speakers, understand authentic German texts written for native audiences, and gain a deep appreciation of the cultures and societies of the German-speaking world.

If you enjoy exploring other cultures, like learning by doing, and don’t mind taking risks to develop your skills, this course is perfect for you.

In your first year, you’ll study towards the AS qualification before progressing to the full A Level.

Lessons are lively, practical and interactive. Your teacher will speak mainly in German, and you’ll quickly feel comfortable speaking the language yourself in class discussions and group activities.

What you’ll explore on the course:

• Contemporary German society: changing attitudes to family, the role of technology, and multiculturalism.
• Culture of the German-speaking world: festivals and traditions, music, architecture, and influential figures.
• Politics and history: from the Second World War to the fall of the Berlin Wall.
• Film and literature: you’ll study a German film and a novel in depth, learning how to analyse and write essays in German about characters, themes and techniques.
• Independent research: in your second year, you’ll choose a topic that fascinates you and carry out your own project, which forms part of the oral exam.

What you’ll gain from the course:

• The confidence to debate, discuss and express your views in German.
• The chance to watch German films and read German literature.
• Access to authentic online resources to strengthen your skills.
• The opportunity to work with native speakers and practise in small groups.
• The possibility of travelling to Germany to experience the language and culture first-hand.

Assessment: Assessment is by externally assessed examinations: one oral exam and two written papers, including listening, reading, writing, translation and essays.

Next steps: You could progress to study at university or find a job where you can use your language skills, which are in great demand. Languages are valued in many careers such as business, tourism, teaching, banking, politics, translation and interpreting, broadcasting and journalism.

You will need eight GCSEs at grade 4 or above (including English Language and Maths).

You will also need a grade 6 or above in GCSE German. Other experience in German may be taken into account.

We normally offer practice with a German Language Assistant alongside class work. In our weekly IT suite session, we focus mainly on listening and research skills. A wide range of electronic and paper-based resources enable students to work independently. You will also have access to several Learning Resource Centres (LRCs), and there is a refectory in the Hele Building and in other areas of the College.

There are some costs of materials and resources.