Add GCSE German and stand out from the crowd

Want to stand out when applying for jobs or university? 

If you’re joining Holy Cross College in September 2026, we have an additional opportunity that could make your experience even more rewarding: 

GCSE German (fast-track, one year only) 

If you’ve enjoyed your French or Spanish studies at high school, but you’re not continuing with these at A Level, adding a GCSE in German is a unique opportunity to continue language study. 

Why consider adding GCSE German? 

• It’s just for one year – this is a fast-track GCSE, completed in your first year only, so it won’t run alongside your second-year A Level studies 
• Highly achievable – most of our students achieve top grades (8–9) 
• A real standout – German isn’t commonly offered in high schools, meaning it helps you stand out on university and job applications 
• A powerful combination – adding German to your repertoire shows adaptability, academic ambition and global awareness 
• A fresh, engaging course – taught at a supportive pace, with a strong focus on helping you succeed 

Hear from Dina, who took GCSE German alongside her A Levels

Dina is a former Holy Cross student who’s now studying at the University of Oxford. 

She chose to take GCSE German alongside A Level Spanish. 

In this short video, she talks about how valuable the experience was – and how it helped her stand out. 

Hear from our Head of Languages

Meet Miss Wilson, Head of Languages here at Holy Cross. 

In this short video, she explains: 

• Exactly how the course works 
• The entry requirements  
• What support you’ll receive 
• Why it’s such a great opportunity 
• How it’ll make you stand out to employers 
• How to add GCSE German to your application 

What about workload? 

We know you may be wondering about workload – but this course is designed to fit smoothly alongside your A Levels. 

Because it’s: 

• only one year 
• carefully structured for fast progress 
• taught by an experienced and supportive team 

…it’s a very manageable addition for students who want to add an extra language. 

Ready to challenge yourself? 

Taking GCSE German is a brilliant way to: 

• Boost your confidence 
• Broaden your skillset 
• Give yourself an edge for the future 

We really encourage you to consider it – you might just surprise yourself with how much you can achieve! 

Want to add GCSE German to your application? 

Email our Admissions Team to add GCSE German to your application. 

You can also speak to us at New Students’ Day (find us at Student Services) or add it at Enrolment in August.