Why choose A level Spanish?
A level Spanish is an exciting and rewarding course that helps you become a confident speaker and global thinker. You’ll develop advanced language skills while exploring the culture, politics, and everyday life of Spanish-speaking countries.
The course covers key topics such as social issues and trends, political and artistic culture, and grammar. You will also have the option to study Spanish literature and film.
Studying Spanish will boost your critical thinking, memory, and confidence. It also helps you become more open-minded and adaptable – qualities highly valued by universities and employers.
Whether you’re interested in travel, translation, international business, education, or diplomacy, A level Spanish opens doors to many exciting opportunities worldwide.
Course type: A level
Board: AQA
Entry requirements: Grade 6 or above in GCSE Spanish
How will A level Spanish be delivered?
You will learn through authentic materials such as news articles, podcasts, and videos that explore real-world language and global topics. You’ll debate current issues, develop your ideas, and express your views confidently. The course also includes studying a powerful film and engaging literary texts, bringing culture and storytelling to life.
| Unit | Content |
| 1: Social issues and trends | Explore social topics like family, education, and immigration in Spanish-speaking societies |
| 2: Political and artistic culture | Study political life, activism, and cultural expressions such as art, music, and festivals |
| 3: Grammar | Develop a strong understanding of complex grammar to communicate accurately and fluently |
| 4: Literary texts and films | Analyse and discuss one Spanish novel and one film, focusing on themes, characters, and context |
Assessment
A level Spanish is assessed through three exam papers, taken at the end of the two-year course. Each paper tests different skills and together they make up 100% of the final grade.
Paper 1: Listening, reading and writing
- Written exam, 2 hours 30 minutes, 100 marks (50% of A level)
- Tests understanding of spoken and written Spanish on society, culture, politics, and grammar
- Includes translation into English and Spanish
Paper 2: Writing
- Written exam, 2 hours, 80 marks (20% of A level)
- Focuses on essays about one literary text and one film or two literary texts
- Requires critical analysis of themes and techniques
Paper 3: Speaking
- Oral exam, 21–23 minutes (including 5 minutes preparation), 60 marks (30% of A level)
- Includes a discussion on a sub-theme and a presentation plus discussion on an individual research project
There is no coursework component. All exams are marked by AQA examiners.
Progression
Studying A level French provides a strong foundation for future progression. This subject can help students to:
- Progress to university courses in modern languages, linguistics, law, international relations, business, science, medicine, and more
- Support applications across a wide range of disciplines by developing critical thinking, text analysis, and clear communication skills
- Develop transferable skills such as cultural awareness, problem solving, and confident expression
- Access competitive apprenticeships and professional training in areas like translation, diplomacy, journalism, and education
- Prepare for careers with global companies or in international roles including diplomacy, media, education, and business
- Stand out in higher education and job applications due to the subject’s academic challenge and global relevance
