Which level do I choose?

The following are general guidelines as to the most appropriate stage of a language course based on previous qualifications. On enrolment, all learners will be given further advice and the opportunity to discuss their language stage with a member of staff to ensure the correct module is chosen.

Semester 1 Modules – from October to December

Stage 1 = no prior knowledge

Stage 3 = GCSE grade C or lower, CEF level A1

Stage 5 = GCSE grade A/B, CEF level A2/B1

Stage 7 = AS-level grade B, A2 grade C/D or lower, CEF level B1

Stage 9 = A at A2 level, CEF level B2/C1

 

Semester 2 Modules – from January to May

Stage 2 = very basic knowledge (e.g. one year of language studies several years ago)

Stage 4 = GCSE grade B/C, CEF level A2

Stage 6 = GCSE A*, AS-Level D or below, CEF level B1

Stage 8 = AS-level grade A, A2-level C or above, CEF level B1/B2

Stage 10 = A* at A2 level, CEF level B2/C1

 

 International Baccalaureate Diploma:

 At higher level:

Grade 7 - Stage 9/10

Grade 6 - Stage 9

Grade 5 - Stage 7/8

Grade 4  - Stage 7

Grade 3 -  Stage 5/6

 

At standard level:

Grade 7 - Stage 8

Grade 6 - Stage 7

Grade 5 - Stage 6

Grade 4 - Stage 5/6

Grade 3 - Stage 5

 

International Baccalaureate Certificate:

At higher level: see above

 

At standard level:

Grade 7 - Stage 7

Grade 6 - Stage 6

Grade 5 - Stage 6

Grade 4 - Stage 5/6

Grade 3 - Stage 5

 

The Middle Years Programme is the equivalent of GCSE overall; individual subjects are marked on a scale of 1-7, with 7 being the highest.  A score of 4 or above should equate to at least a grade C at GCSE. (Stage 3)