Mandarin Chinese

Mandarin

Why choose Mandarin Chinese GCSE?

Choosing Mandarin for GCSE is a valuable opportunity to learn one of the world’s most widely spoken languages. As China’s influence grows globally in business, technology, and culture, proficiency in Mandarin can open doors to unique career opportunities and international connections.

You may take a GCSE in Chinese (Mandarin) if you have studied it in Years 7 to 9 or already have a strong background in the language. For students in the Mandarin Excellence Programme (MEP), while the same options are available as for those studying other languages, you must demonstrate the ability to take GCSE Mandarin and continue MEP studies into Key Stage 4 to qualify for the China trip in June/July 2025.

A modern foreign language at GCSE level is also one of the subjects recognised in the English Baccalaureate, and a GCSE language qualification can be invaluable for those aiming to pursue university studies.

Cultural and linguistic opportunities

Discover languages beyond textbooks and worksheets, making them real, relevant, and alive by participating in various linguistic opportunities . We offer:

Four-day Year 10 Intensive Study Tourism Project, including a day trip to the University of Southampton – MEP students only.
HSK 3 test – to earn a globally recognized Chinese proficiency certificate and the opportunity to apply for scholarships to China – for MEP students and capable candidates.
Funded cultural celebrations and trips– for all learners.
Hosting Chinese exchange students – for all learners.
Preparation to progress to IB (International Baccalaureate) Chinese studies in Sixth Form – for capable candidates.
Opportunity to apply for a funded A-level program to study at Wycombe Abbey School (by recommendation only).

Remember that Language is more than just words and grammar concepts, come and join us and enjoy this unique experience to embrace different cultures.

Assessment

Equal emphasis is placed on the individual skills of listening, speaking, reading and writing, with separate final examinations for each.

All skills are assessed at the end of Year 11. The speaking exam is sat just before the main exam period and is examined by your teacher. Higher and Foundation tiers of entry are available for GCSE Mandarin.

Subject information

The main aim of the GCSE Mandarin Chinese is to further develop pupils' ability to use the foreign language effectively for purposes of practical communication.

Courses will also aim to offer an insight into the culture and civilisation of other countries, develop an awareness of the nature of language and language learning, and provide enjoyment and intellectual stimulation.

Over the course you will study a variety of topics, including:

Me, my family and friends.
Technology in everyday life.
Free-time activities - music, cinema/tv, sport, food.
Customs and festivals in Mandarin-speaking countries/communities.
Home, town, neighbourhood and region.
Social issues - poverty/homelessness.
Global issues - the environment.
Travel and tourism.
Life at school/college.
Education post-16.
Jobs, career choices and ambitions.

What can this lead to?

Colleges, universities and employers are keen to find people who can speak a second language. Many people study a language GCSE because they want to travel and experience other cultures, but it is also an excellent qualification for supporting many careers, such as:

Detective
Diplomat
Engineer
First Responder
Flight Attendant
Journalist
Solicitor
Marketing Manager
Football player care officer
Nurse
Screenwriter
Charity Worker
Jobs in the tourism industry
Teacher
Translator
Travel Blogger
Transport/Logistics Manager
Chemist
Careers in media

Key Links

https://qualifications.pearson.com/en/qualifications/edexcel-gcses/chinese-2017.html

http://www.chinese.cn/page/#/pcpage/project_detail

https://www.britishcouncil.org/school-resources/languages/mandarin-excellence-programme

https://www.fluentu.com/blog/foreign-language-jobs/

https://www.mi5.gov.uk/careers/opportunities/languages

https://www.theguardian.com/education/2013/oct/16/language-graduates-jobs

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