Languages

University

The Key Stage 5 curriculum is an area that we are currently in the process of developing. Completing an A Level will prepare pupils for a language degree or language combined course. The wide range of topics covered over two year and the study of works (texts and film) prepares pupils for the academic and research demands of a Languages degree. Languages courses at university offer you the chance to study an individual modern language or combine two or more ( often including history, literature, culture, and politics); translation and interpreting, as well as linguistics.

Careers

Communicating in another language complements any career. Languages make a perfect match alongside any subjects at A-Level and degree level (EG/ French and law, Spanish and history). Furthermore, it is considered a “facilitating subject” at A Level meaning it will help you get into the top universities, even if you do not plan to study languages at degree level.   

Some popular careers involving languages are listed below, but the list in not exhaustive as languages really do compliment every job:   

• Translator/interpreter - This is a career available in every industry and you could find yourself working in the media (e.g. writing subtitles/dubbing films), sport (translating for athletes) or for governments (e.g. translating at the European parliament or in negotiations between two countries).   
• Journalism - Reporting for the international media or in different countries around the world.  
• International companies (including British based ones) regularly require their employees to speak two languages to allow them to work in different countries. They would rather hire someone who speaks a language over someone that doesn’t, no matter how much you know.  YOU DON’T HAVE TO BE FLUENT AND KNOW EVERY WORD.  
• Law – working with people in this country who don’t speak English or people who need help for issues abroad.  
• Tourism - People who speak another language are a huge asset for working at airports, hotels, as air cabin crew and even as tour guides.   

All jobs suit a languages graduate owing to the range of skills you gain. A few common careers for those that have studied languages are:

• Working for an international company
• Sales manager in the UK
• Foreign Services Officer
• Jobs in the travel industry (in an airport, customer service, an airline company)
• Working for an international charity
• Foreign Correspondent
• Intelligence Operative
• Working in a consulate

A previous Google study of recruitment and career progression data since 1998 showed that skills learnt by learning a second language were seen by employers as the most desirable.

• Marketing Executive - Level:4 (equivalent to certificate of higher education). Typical length:15 months
• Bid and Proposal Coordinator - Level: 3 (equivalent to A levels grades A to E). Typical length: 24 months
• Policy Officer - Level 4 (equivalent to certificate of higher education). Typical length: 24 months
• Cyber Security Technologist - Level 4 (equivalent to certificate of higher education). Typical length: 24 months