Spanish

Course content

Level

Level 3

Introduction

Any modern language will give you a valuable extra skill to add to your other subjects, and is a definite advantage in today’s global job market. You can take one or two languages or combine a language with many other subjects at university.
Spanish is the third most spoken language in the world, with approximately 400 million speakers. It is the official language in 20 countries, in Spain, Central and South America, so there are plenty of chances to use Spanish in a global context.

As part of your studies you will be required to conduct your own research on cultural topics and to take responsibility for your own wider reading.

An interest in Hispanic culture, history and politics is recommended.

Specific course entry requirements

College entry to include GCSE Spanish minimum grade 6, with higher tier paper sat. (please refer to the Entry Requirements section for further details).

How will I be assessed?

100% Examination:

Paper 1 – Listening, Reading and Translation 50%

Paper 2 – Essay Writing 20%

Paper 3 – Speaking 30%

What will I study?

In the first, year you will study: 

Aspects of Hispanic society Artistic culture in the Hispanic world, including changes in Spanish society, gender equality, influence, regional identity in Spain, and cultural heritage in the Spanish-speaking world. You will also gain a deeper understanding of grammar and translation skills. You will attend speaking sessions to improve your speaking skills. You will study a Spanish film.

In the second year, you will study; 

Multiculturalism in Hispanic society Aspects of political life in the Hispanic world, including immigration, integration, and fascism; young people in society and their attitudes towards politics; monarchy, dictatorships, and popular movements. You will study a novel You will also carry out an individual research project on a cultural theme of your choice, conduct wider reading, and work both independently and collaboratively.

Where will this course lead me?

Studying Spanish will give you excellent career opportunities and lifelong skills in today’s global market. Knowledge of another language makes students more employable by standing out from the crowd. Employers value the transferable skills that linguists demonstrate. Having knowledge of a language will increase your earning potential by 10% to 15%.

Spanish is a subject that can be combined with arts, business, law, science and many other subjects for entry into Higher Education. It prepares you for careers that require good communication skills in a global environment such as business, management, law, engineering, international marketing, teaching and journalism. Furthermore, Spanish A-level is one of the facilitating subjects sought after by the Russell Group, which represents 24 leading UK universities.

Biology, Chemistry, Spanish, Extended Project

Nurturing rising talent

Our Elective Programme is designed to help you develop your gifts and interests as part of an enhanced level 3 programme. We will help you realise your potential by nurturing your talent and preparing you for study at the most prestigious universities or for progression to competitive higher-level apprenticeships. Your options range from our Honours Programme, which might include following a fourth A level, to specialist Futures Programmes that will support your career goals.

Open Event

4 November 2026
Join us at our Open Event and discover what makes St John Rigby one of the most popular choices for students across the region.

Level 2 entry requirements

If you’re not quite ready to start on a Level 3 Technical course (T Levels) or a Vocational Level 3 course (BTEC) but want to begin on the path to your chosen career, the Transition Programme could be for you.  

Transition Programmes are tailored to prepare students to move onto Technical or Vocational Level 3 study. They will give you the opportunity to improve your English and Maths, your work readiness skills and introduce you to the technical skills and concepts that you will need for future study and employment. 

As part of the Transition Programme you will study a BTEC Level 2 Award in your chosen subject area as well as the BTEC Level 2 Extended Award in Work Skills. You will also have the opportunity to resit GCSE English and/or Maths if you have not yet achieved a grade 4. 

Entry criteria for Transition Programmes is four grade 3s including grade 3s in English Language and Maths GCSE.

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