FCSE Modern Foreign Languages


AQA is introducing an exciting qualification called FCSE (Foundation Certificate of Secondary Education).

Who is it for?

  • FCSE fills a gap: teachers told us that pupils who learn a Modern Foreign Language up to the end of Key Stage 3, but choose not to continue, have nothing to show for 3 (or more) years of language learning.
  • FCSE is suitable for a wide age range:
    • primary
    • Key Stage 3 (years 7–9)
    • Key Stage 4 (years 10–11)
    • adult learners.

What do they learn?

  • FCSE is available in:
    • French and Spanish (from September 2007 – first phase schools only)
    • Chinese (Mandarin), French, Spanish, Italian and German (from September 2008 – for all).
  • Material routinely taught at KS3 is assessed: no prescribed content or vocabulary.
  • Twelve units are arranged in four themes, corresponding to current GCSE themes.
  • FCSE includes all four language skills:
    • listening
    • speaking
    • reading
    • writing.

How are pupils assessed?

  • We provide externally-set, centre-assessed assignments in Listening and Reading. We plan to provide on-screen tests soon.
  • Listening and Reading specimen materials in all four languages are available, see Key documents at the top of this page.
  • Teachers set and mark the Speaking and Writing assignments. If teachers prefer not to set their own, they can use assignments supplied by us.
  • There are three levels of award:
    • Pass
    • Merit
    • Distinction
    covering National Curriculum Levels 4, 5 and 6.

Versatile, flexible and manageable

  • Pupils attempt assignments when a topic has been covered, at different stages in the course, and can re-take if required.
  • Practice assignments are available.
  • Teachers choose which units to cover and send us evidence from three of them for moderation.
  • Administrative procedures are simple: paperwork is minimal and under the teacher's control.
  • As an alternative to completing the full qualification, individual units can be studied and accredited through AQA's Unit Award Scheme




EXPO 08 find out more

Key documents


Further information