In order that students may pick up a Language GCSE in Year 11, it is essential that their language skills continue to be developed over Years 9 and 10. To enable this to happen, the College is providing Continuity Language courses throughout Years 9 and 10 in either French or Spanish. Students who wish to choose to study a language in Years 10 or 11 must have completed the appropriate Continuity Language course in Year 9. It is recommended that where a student intends to study a language at A-Level, they take their GCSE in this language in Year 11.
This course can lead to a Level 1 Award (equivalent to a GCSE Grade D-G) in either French or Spanish.
It is important that students wishing to do French and/or Spanish GCSE in Years 10 or 11 do not lose contact with their foreign language skills during Year 9. We will, therefore, offer continuity lessons in French and Spanish which will aim to keep students’ knowledge of vocabulary and grammar fresh. We will preview important GCSE topics including Self, Leisure, Home & Environment, Work & Education while practising speaking, listening, reading and writing the language in addition to studying cultural aspects of the country and people.
Students may be entered for the FCSE (Foundation Certificate of Secondary Education) in French or Spanish. This is a national qualification in which the Distinction Award is equivalent to a Full-Course Grade D GCSE. Topics will include Meeting People, Holidays, Food & Drink and Work & Choices. Students will practise all 4 skills - speaking, listening, reading and writing in addition to studying cultural aspects of the country and people.