Course information
French
South Hampstead High School - Camden
02074352899
3 Maresfield Gardens, London, NW3 5SS
Course summary

Do you enjoy discussion and debate? Do you enjoy travel and communication? In our increasingly global world, you will gain an in-depth knowledge of the target language, society, literature, culture and political system of China, France, Germany or Spain. A modern language will combine perfectly with any other A Level discipline. Universities, for example, value potential students of English or History studying a language at A Level, while others recommend it for potential scientists as put quite simply, science graduates must be able to communicate. Medical schools recommend that, in addition to their two or three sciences, students study an arts subject at A Level, preferably a language. All study, no matter what the discipline, is about communication and therefore a language at A Level will complement any subject. Looking beyond the Sixth Form, a language degree remains a passport to many professions, such as law, accountancy and investment banking, where employers seek to recruit highly qualified graduates who are fluent in at least another language, or who have the fine-tuned language skills to study more languages. Languages can also be combined with a vast range of other disciplines at university and many non-language degree courses offer the possibility of studying abroad and gaining accreditation through the Erasmus scheme. With so much access to new media, it is an exciting time to study a language! The syllabus explores topics which are particularly relevant to young people. Over the two years of A Level, we study and discuss a very wide range of current affairs-based issues such as relationships and changing family structure, modern technology, music, festivals, media, political structures and immigration. We commence literary study (either one film and one text or two texts, starting in the Lower Sixth and continuing in the Upper Sixth) along with specific historical studies relating to the target language country. Throughout the two years, we continue to study all aspects of grammar with a focus on translation skills. In addition to this, all students undertake independent research which is at the core of the speaking examination in the Upper Sixth.

Entry requirements

Current South Hampstead pupils transferring to the Sixth Form must achieve a minimum of six GCSE grades at grade 7 or equivalent, and at least a grade 5 in both Mathematics and English Language. Individual requirements are set for different subjects, with some requiring at least a grade 8 or equivalent. For external candidates, places are offered based on the result of the entrance examinations, interviews and projected GCSE grades. Offers are conditional on achieving the required standard, with specific conditions outlined in individual offer letters. The expected standard is high – offers are usually made on the condition of\ candidates achieving at least seven GCSEs at grade 8 or equivalent, including in your chosen subjects. Studying a modern language, like any subject, can be challenging and demanding, so you will need to be prepared to be self-motivated and to have independence of mind and a creative imagination. You will gain more from lessons if you are prepared to develop your ideas and to participate actively in discussion. You should also enjoy reading, as you will be expected to read beyond the set texts. We expect at least a grade 7 or equivalent at GCSE in the language to be studied.

How you'll be assessed

School Info

About Education Provider

RegionLondon
Local AuthorityCamden
Ofsted Rating
Gender TypeGirls
ISI ReportView Report
Boarding FeeUnknown
Sixth Form Fee£22,764
Address3 Maresfield Gardens, London, NW3 5SS