Languages Work* Learning > From 14 to 19 years-old

Study options

Changes in the curriculum mean that there are fewer compulsory subjects and a far wider range of options. There are also lots of opportunities for work-related study. This means that the range of subjects chosen can be more customised to the student’s needs and make him or her ready for the workplace.

Languages can be studied in many ways beyond simply GCSE and AS/A level. There are lots of vocational qualifications and informal tasters for example, which may be available. You should ask your Languages teacher about what you can do through your school or local colleges in Key Stage 4 and beyond. Also look out for vocational subjects where language modules may be available within the syllabus, like Travel and Tourism.

You also need to start thinking when you want to start your career: at 16, 18 after college or sixth form, or are you thinking about university? If you choose to continue your study, you will find different ways of studying languages which suit you. Look at sections on further and higher education to see what options you have there.

14 to 19 Diplomas

Diplomas are the new qualifications for 14 to 19 year olds which herald the biggest change to the 14 to 19 curriculum for many years. Sitting alongside GCSEs and A levels, they offer young people the opportunity to gain knowledge and skills within an applied, sector-focused context.

For more information, visit the 14 to 19 section of the CILT website.

Look at the Links and Factsheets and information sections for more ideas.