What is Spanish?
At Prior Pursglove, A level Spanish isn’t just about mastering grammar; it’s about opening doors to new perspectives, understanding diverse societies, and developing a skill that will set you apart. We bring the Spanish-speaking world into the classroom, and we would like you to join us
Why study Spanish?
Choosing A level Spanish is more than just picking a subject, it’s investing in yourself. In an increasingly globalised world, speaking a second language is a huge asset. Spanish is the second most spoken native language globally, opening up vast opportunities for travel, work, and further study. You’ll gain a deep understanding of current affairs, historical events, and diverse cultural traditions across Spain and Latin America. Beyond language proficiency, you’ll hone invaluable transferable skills like critical thinking, communication, analysis, and problem-solving, all highly valued by universities and employers. Plus, it’s incredibly rewarding to connect with people from different backgrounds and understand the world through a new lens!
Is Spanish right for you?
This course is perfect for you if you have a genuine curiosity about other cultures and a passion for communication. If you enjoyed Spanish at GCSE and are eager to delve deeper, you’ll love the challenge and reward of A level. We welcome students who are enthusiastic, resilient, and ready to engage with complex ideas. You don’t need to be perfectly fluent from day one; what’s important is your willingness to learn, practice, and push yourself. If you love discussing current events, exploring art and film, and understanding historical contexts, then A level Spanish is definitely for you.
What will you study?
- Being a young person in Spanish-speaking society
The evolution of family structures, the impact of digital technology and social media on youth identity, and the challenges of education and the job market - Understanding the Spanish-speaking world
Cultural identity through regional traditions, the influence of Spanish-language media, and historical festivals and customs across Spain and Latin America - Diversity and difference
Migration and integration, the rights of minority groups such as the Gitanos, and the evolution of LGBTQ+ and gender equality in Hispanic societies - The two Spains, 1936 to the present
The Spanish Civil War, life under Franco’s dictatorship, and the transition to a modern democratic monarchy
“A level Spanish is a challenging yet rewarding course that shouldn’t be underestimated. I studied Spanish alongside Maths and Physics, it was a welcome challenge that really helped me improve my problem solving and communications skills. Since prior I completed an MEng in Mechanical Engineering and now serve as a Communications Engineering Officer in the RAF. I also did the MOD’s Spanish Assessment and I am now a recognised ‘professional Linguist’ for the MOD. Language skills are fantastic for global employment prospects and can really give you a leg up in unexpected everyday situations.”
Sam, Class of 2018
Where can Spanish take you?
- International business and trade: working for multinational corporations, import/export, or in international sales.
- Translation and interpreting: bridging communication gaps in various sectors.
- Diplomacy and international relations: working for embassies, NGOs, or international organisations.
- National security (MI5) and Secret Intelligence Services: for example as intelligence analyst linguist (RAF)
- Tourism and hospitality: leading tours, working in international hotels, or managing travel operations.
- Education: becoming a language teacher in primary, secondary, or higher education.
- Media and journalism: reporting from Spanish-speaking countries or working for international news outlets.
- Marketing and communications: developing campaigns for global brands.
- Research and academia: specialising in Latin American studies, Spanish literature, or linguistics.
- Computing, programming and AI: learning a foreign language can significantly boost your tech career by opening up opportunities in international markets, enhancing collaboration with global teams, and improving problem-solving and design skills.
What subjects go well with Spanish?
An A level in Spanish is a highly sought-after qualification that opens doors to a vast array of exciting career paths and further study opportunities. Many of our students go on to study Modern Languages at university, often combining Spanish with another language or subject like Science or Maths to provide the humanistic and cultural capital “touch” to your education, or Law, Business, English, Art, Media, or History
What are the entry requirements?
- General requirements: Five GCSEs at grade 4 or above.
- Subject specific: Grade 4 in GCSE Spanish.