German

The study of German therefore opens up all sorts of career and business opportunities as well as giving insight into the culture of German speaking countries that have produced some of the most influential people in history such as Beethoven, Mozart, Freud, Einstein and Goethe.

There is a need for German in business as German companies play a significant role as our key trading partner and it is estimated that around 11% of business among EU companies is lost because of lack of German skills (in UK this figure is higher). As former German Chancellor, Willy Brandt remarked: “If I’m selling to you, I speak your language but if I’m buying, dann müssen Sie Deutsch sprechen”

Currently German is taught along side French to all pupils in Year 7 to enable them to develop an interest and enthusiasm for this major language.  It is supplemented with a lunchtime club activity run by our German Assistant. From year 8 pupils may choose to pick up Spanish instead of either French or German. The main aim of teaching in these years is to enthuse pupils and motivate them to carry on with the language to GCSE level and beyond. Whilst there is therefore an emphasis on fun and enjoyment using a wide range of interactive resources, pupils also cover a large amount of grammar so that they have a good grasp of the basics before embarking upon GCSE.

German may be studied as a core language or as a second language alongside French or Spanish. It is taught using the new AQA specification with skills assessed in Reading and Listening, Speaking and Writing. At AS and A2 Level  German is taught using the new WJEC GCE specifications. The course places particular emphasis on the development and application of the four skills (reading, listening, speaking and writing) in a variety of communicative contexts.  Language learning activities are designed to be enjoyable and to spark interest.  This is backed up by the rigorous teaching of German Grammar to enable progress to a high standard in the language.  Study is further supported through individual/small group Oral Lessons provided by a German native Speaker, and the use of our excellent ICT facilities.

At Ashville, there is an excellent and well established German Exchange Programme for pupils who opt for GCSE, work placements in Germany for ‘A’ level students and also a successful Year 8&9 trip to Germany for those beginning the language, which runs biennially. The Department also runs a popular Sixth Form ski trip to Zell am See in Austria and plans to develop this link further.  In addition to the opportunities to travel to Germany, pupils will have small group lessons with a native speaker and use up to date and interactive resources to improve and practice their language skills.

Results each year in German are amongst the best at the College and that is due to the commitment and expertise of the staff involved and the range of activities on offer to consolidate the excellent teaching of the subject who meet regularly to share best practice and ideas. Mr Ian Popely, Head of German is joined in the department by  Mr David Webster, Mr John Sexton and our part-time triple linguist Mrs Esther Jones.