German is taught in a way which enables pupils of all abilities to communicate.  Emphasis is always on accuracy and the grammar is taught thoroughly, but firstly, pupils need to perceive patterns of  language which they can adapt and use confidently, so that they are not afraid to speak, whether in an Austrian  ski-resort to order a meal or on socio-economic issues in the Sixth Form.  We do this by means of overhead transparencies, up to date textbooks and role-play activities as well as more traditional grammatical exercises, translations etc.  Most students enjoy the course and feel they learn a great deal in a short time.
As we do not begin German until Year 9, we have to offer an accelerated course to all pupils so that two homeworks are essential.  At least one of these involves learning vocabulary.
Pupils who choose to continue with German as an option subject in Year 10, whether as their first or second language, have the opportunity in the long-standing exchange with a grammar school in Berlin.  This is always a popular event.  'A' Level students are required to visit Germany too, and they are always amazed at how far they have progressed in their four years of study!

At Key Stage 3 topics covered are:

At Key Stage 4, the GCSE Course, the NEAB Examinations Board syllabus is followed at Foundation or Higher Level as appropriate.  Key Stage 3 topics are revisited and extended to include:

In the Sixth Form we follow the Oxford Board's new syllabus, which has two main components:

A wide range of up-to-date topics are covered in a variety of ways, but with the emphasis always on speaking the language competently, as this is what today's society requires.

We are always very pleased with our public examinations success and with the percentage of pupils who carry on with German at University.