Which level do I choose?
The following are general guidelines as to the most appropriate stage of a language course based on your 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 that 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).