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German

German is by far the most widely spoken native language in Europe. Learning German at A Level not only gives students precise and advanced linguistic and communication skills but also insight and in depth understanding of an incredible culture.

A Level German students study a range of social, artistic, cultural, historical and political topics over two years including the changing nature of the family in German society, the influence of technology, youth culture, traditions and festivals, art and architecture, the cultural importance and influence of Berlin. There is a particular focus on post-war German history, in particular life in the DDR under communism, the fall of the Berlin Wall and German reunification. We also consider in detail current social and political issues around immigration and integration in German-speaking societies.

We also study in detail a piece of literature and a film which complement the course themes: currently we are studying Der Vorleser by Bernhard Schlink and the film Goodbye Lenin directed by Wolfgang Becker.

Students will develop high-level reading, listening, writing, speaking and translation skills and in Year 13 undertake an Individual Research Project on a topic of their choice which they research and present as part of the speaking exam.

We hope that students will be able to visit a German-speaking area as part of an exchange or a trip and we will also take part in collaborative international projects with our linked partner schools in German-speaking areas.

“l originally chose German at GCSE because I had a desire to study two languages, French and German, within my options. I enjoyed it so much that I have carried it on to A Level.”

Next Steps

Language students will find that almost any path of study or career is open to them. Learning a language at A Level not only makes you an excellent communicator but also makes the learning of new languages easier. Many students go on to study German as part of a degree, but a number also use their linguistic knowledge and confidence to start a completely new language at university. Others go onto study law, politics, business, humanities, social sciences, architecture, medicine or sciences both in the UK and abroad. Many also go onto apprenticeships or straight into employment as their language qualification gives them excellent communication skills which benefit the workplace in countless ways.

Opportunities to study and work abroad are plentiful and there are often bursaries and funds specifically available for language students. The UK needs skilled linguists now more than ever!