Spanish (A-level)
Spanish is used as a medium of communication in this course, so students can gather, analyse and discuss information and ideas in Spanish.
Course Summary
Course Information for Students
Who is this course for?
This programme allows students to use Spanish for the purpose of communication and enables them to gather, analyse and exchange information and ideas in Spanish.
Entry Requirements
You will need at least five GCSEs at grade 4 or above, including English Language at grade 5 and Maths at grade 4.
In addition, you should have GCSE Spanish at grade 5 or above (preferably in the Higher paper).
You will be expected to demonstrate a keen interest in Spanish-speaking countries and their culture.
A recent school report will be required which demonstrates a committed attitude to learning.
It is assumed that students will enrol on a two-year A-level programme of study consisting of three or more subjects. However, students will be expected to demonstrate a committed attitude to learning and make positive progress in their first year of study.
What will you learn?
A-level course content:
- Social issues and trends
- Political and artistic culture
- Grammar
- Works – literary texts and films
- Individual research project
A-level topics include:
- Multiculturalism in Hispanic society including immigration, racism and integration.
- Aspects of political life in the Hispanic world including today’s youth, tomorrow’s citizens, monarchies, republics and dictatorships, and popular movements.
How will you learn?
This course will be delivered on-site at the Joseph Wright Centre.
What will you need to bring with you?
N/A
How will you be assessed?
The A-level exams in Spanish include questions that allow students to demonstrate their ability to:
- draw together their knowledge, skills and understanding from across the full course of study
- provide extended responses
The exam board is AQA.
A-level assessment:
Paper 1: Listening, reading and writing (2 hours 30 minutes, 100 marks in total, 50% of A-level)
Paper 2: Writing (2 hours, 80 marks in total, 20% of A-level)
Paper 3: Speaking (21–23 minutes including 5 minutes preparation time, 60 marks in total, 30% of A-level)
Where next?
You may need languages for all sorts of career destinations – doctors, psychologists and physiotherapists need language skills to communicate effectively with patients whether they work in the UK or overseas. Business people, bankers and entrepreneurs all need language skills to make deals and sell products on the global market.
Politicians, historians, geographers and holiday reps all need language skills to get to know the people and area that they are passionate about. In addition, careers in teaching, translating/interpreting, journalism, importing/exporting and catering will all require advanced level language skills.
A foreign language A-level will complement and enhance your other studies too.
Who do you contact for more information?
For more information, contact Derby College Group on 0800 0280289 or enquiries@derby-college.ac.uk
Course Information for Employers
Information for Employers
Career Information
This course could lead to one of these careers...
Authors, Writers and Translators
£30805
Teaching Professionals
£18085
Nursery Education Teaching Professionals
£30259
DCG Success Stories
Will Broad
PGCE student Will inspired and encouraged by JWC A level tutors
There is no doubt that I wouldn’t be where I am now without the inspiration and encouragement of my A-level lecturers. They were terrific and all extremely passionate about their respective fields
Lydia Gaida
Former JWC student Lydia has British Council teaching role in Austria
JWC was my best local option for A-levels and it made me realise my own personal connection to learning languages and how important it was for me to study them at university.
Becky Helm
TESOL and Spanish teacher Becky invited to teach Chilean students
I chose Derby College over other local colleges and sixth forms because I liked the range of courses it offered, JWC’s buildings and its learning resources.
Applications for 2025 Full-Time School Leaver Courses are now CLOSED FOR PROCESSING*
If you’ve already applied for a full-time vocational or academic course, please check your InTouch account to view your application status and accept any outstanding offers. We may also be trying to contact you by phone, so keep an ear out for calls from the College — to ensure we are progressing your first-choice course area.
Haven’t applied yet?
Your next opportunity will be during our Clearing Enrolment sessions, starting Wednesday 27th August at 12pm. Please note that places will be limited and subject to course availability, entry requirements, and interviews. Find out more about Enrolment and Clearing Enrolment: Enrolment and Clearing Information 2025
Course Information Last Updated On: June 18, 2025 10:20 am
