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Course details

GCSE German

German Trip

Studying A Modern Foreign Language to GCSE level:

There are many misconceptions about how languages are used at work. Many think that the only jobs available for language students are in translation, interpreting and teaching – not true. These occupations represent only some of the many opportunities out there in a huge variety of industries.

94% of the world’s population does not speak English as their first language. 75% does not speak English at all. It’s a multi-lingual world and UK companies are now realising that they need foreign languages to compete when trading internationally. Over 300 languages are spoken in London alone. Public services and local government now recognise the diversity of UK society and increasingly need languages when serving our community.

A little language can make a lot of difference! There is room for all levels of ability and opportunities are many and varied. Although fluency will give the job seeker more options, a basic ability in languages is much in demand by employers. 

 

Fact: “Young people from the UK are at a disadvantage in the recruitment market. The UK workforce suffers from a chronic shortage of people at all levels with usable language skills. Companies increasingly need personnel with technical or professional skills plus another language.” 
                                                                       Nuffield Languages Enquiry

Fact: “The UK - exports more to France than the  Commonwealth
                          - exports more to Germany than the USA 
                          - exports more to Belgium than Japan.” 
                                                      UK Secretary of State for Trade

Fact: “70% of British companies conduct business in other countries.” 
                                                   Survey in Professional Manager Journal

Fact: “90% of jobs involving languages are in sectors such as sales, marketing and finance and not in translating and teaching.” 
                                                                   Observer, September 2002

Fact: “Secretarial and Clerical staff with language skills can earn 20% extra than those with only English.” 
                                                  The Guardian

Fact: “Graduates with foreign language skills can expect to earn at least 10% more than those without.” 
                                                              Reed Recruitment, 2001

Fact: “Speaking another language is not merely a skill to be admired today but a vitally important business asset.” 
     Managing Director, York Place Company Services Ltd

Which languages?

Recent surveys have shown that the five business languages most in demand are German, French, Spanish, Italian and Dutch.


By achieving a GCSE in a Modern Foreign Language this could lead to the following opportunities:

working abroad, studying abroad, summer jobs, voluntary work, a wider variety of occupations – Business Services, Government, Contact Centres, Education, Engineering, Financial Services, Interpreting and Translating, Law, Marketing, Media and Journalism, Technology, Travel & Tourism, the Armed Services, the Police Force, Catering and Hotel Management.

According to Recruitment Agencies, salary uplift for those using languages at work can be anything from 8% to 20%.


Requirements for students studying Modern Foreign Languages:

  • An interest in language and culture
  • A positive attitude
  • Commitment throughout the course
  • A knowledge of the language in Years 7,8 and 9 
  • Ability to work with others and independently
  • Ability to meet deadlines
  • The willingness to accept a challenge and have a go!

Modern Foreign Language courses build on the knowledge, skills and understanding of the language acquired through KS3, language learning skills and cultural awareness. All four skills are assessed – listening, reading, speaking and writing. For those students who wish to continue with a language at 16+, the courses are designed to lead directly to the AS and A Level courses.

Students who opt to study a Modern Foreign Language at KS4 will follow the AQA GCSE course. (40% examination and 60% controlled assessment).


More information
Modern Foreign Languages Option Presentation
Any parents or students who would like more information on the language course should contact Miss C Heap or Miss J Barker who will be happy to answer any questions.


Remember: This course is worth 1 GCSE.  You should choose this as ONE of your Option Choices.