Chinese

Course summary

Studying languages in the Sixth Form is excellent preparation for boys considering studying modern languages at university, but equally worthwhile for those with other aspirations because languages are perfect complementary subjects. Modern languages combine particularly well with Classics, English and History. They are also very useful to study alongside Economics and Mathematics for those considering university and career options in business and finance. A combination with the sciences can also be favourable: major European pharmaceutical companies such as Bayer and Novartis are based in the UK as well as on the Continent and language skills are sought after among their prospective employees. Many FTSE 100 companies stress that language skills give applicants a distinct advantage. But modern language A-levels are not only highly regarded by UK employers and universities; for boys intending to apply to the US, a modern language A-level can set a candidate apart from the rest. At many US universities students are required to take courses outside of their specialism and languages are perfect for that. For those who continue beyond A-levels, a degree in modern language is excellent preparation for a career in the diplomatic and security services, as well as a strong foundation for a legal career and a whole range of other professions. All modern languages in the Sixth Form follow the Edexcel A-level courses, with terminal assessments in all four skills of listening, reading, writing, and speaking. The structure of the courses is broadly the same for all languages, with some exceptions for Japanese, which is listed separately below. The Mandarin Chinese A-Level is best suited for the very brightest boys and heritage speakers. The others are encouraged to sit the HSK, China’s official proficiency test, for which we prepare the boys on the timetable in a parallel division. For full details of the courses and their specifications visit qualifications.pearson.com. Boys will normally be prepared for these examinations by two beaks, with a further period each week in smaller groups with our excellent and experienced Language Assistants. Boys intending to study modern languages in the Sixth Form are strongly advised to attend study trips over the Lower Sixth year, either those organised by the Modern Languages Department or arranged privately, to help them develop their linguistic abilities in a native speaker environment. There is a department travel prize in honour of a former language beak that can be awarded to one or possibly two boys to help with this.