Languages - choosing the right level for you

To speak to a member of the Languages team call 0118 984 7600.

You can study a range of languages with us from beginners to advanced without getting a qualification. In our classes you will cover the four skills of speaking, listening, reading and writing. The emphasis will be on communication and you will be encouraged to respond to your tutor in the target language right from the start. Homework will be set to support your learning in class and at the end of the course you will be encouraged to progress to the next level.

Most of our courses are divided into two semesters of 15 weeks each. A few of our courses for beginners are taught in terms of 10 weeks each. For these courses you will enrol for First steps followed by Next Steps and finally Further Steps.

There will be the opportunity to take a qualification offered by Asset Languages independently of your course for a small extra charge. Details will be circulated during the autumn term. We are also offering courses leading to a qualification in GCSE French, German or Spanish, AS Level German and A2 Spanish as well as our Distance Learning Diploma in Translation English to French, French to English and Spanish to English. Before enrolling on any of these courses we strongly recommend that you speak with a member of the Languages team.

How do our courses relate to national levels?

Bracknell and Wokingham Course     National Level    European Level

Holidays

                                                            Entry

First/Next Steps/ Further                         Level/                   A1

                                                            Level 1

Beginners

Improvers                                             Level 1                  A1-A2

Lower Intermediate                                Level 2                  A2

Intermediate                                         Level 2/3               B1

Upper Intermediate                                Level 3                  B1-B2

Advanced                                              Level 3                  B2-C1

Fluency (French only)                             Level 3/4               C1

Which course should I choose?

Have a Go

These two hour sessions will give you a brief taster of the language.

Holidays

Choose this course if you would like a five week introduction to basic language useful for situations you might encounter whilst on holiday in a country where the language is spoken.

Beginners

For those with no previous knowledge of the language. You will focus on the basic skills of speaking (including pronunciation), listening and reading. A small amount of writing will be done as homework.

Improvers

For those with approximately 45 hours previous knowledge of the language. You will continue to develop your skills and confidence in basic situations.

Lower Intermediate

For those who have studied the language for 90-100 hours previously. You will begin to be able to distinguish between past, present and future.

Intermediate

For those with five years previous study of the language or equivalent or a top grade GCSE. Your skills will be developed to enable you to cope with most situations that you will encounter whilst travelling in countries where the language is spoken.

Upper Intermediate

For those who have previously studied the language for at least six years or equivalent. You will continue to develop skills so that you are comfortable with the majority of situations likely to arise whilst travelling in countries where the language is spoken

Advanced

For those whose language learning experience is around A Level standard or above. You practise using language flexibly and effectively for social, academic and professional purposes.

Fluency (French only)

You will be able to follow discussions and programmes on radio and television. You will enjoy conversing with a native speaker on a wide range of topics.

Qualification opportunities

GCSE French, German or Spanish: These courses are suitable for students who preferably have four years previous experience of the language. You need to be reasonably comfortable with the past, present and future tenses so that you can prepare for the examination effectively.

AS Level German: This course is suitable for students with a recent high grade at GCSE.

A2 Spanish: This course is suitable for students who have recently achieved a high grade in AS level Spanish.

Preparation for the Diploma in Translation: These distance learning courses are aimed at professionals. You will need to complete a test translation before enrolling. Contact us for details.

To speak to a member of the Languages team call 0118 984 7600.