Turkish

What is it? The study of the Turkish language and the literature and culture of the Turkish-speaking countries, including Turkey, Azerbaijan and Kazakhstan. Students are only assessed on their reading and writing skills, although oral and listening skills are picked up on the way.

Why do it? Most students have a connection with a Turkish-speaking country and want to expand their knowledge of its language and traditions.

Wwhat skills do you need? GCSE Turkish or equivalent.

How much practical work is there? None.

Ratio of coursework to exams: No coursework. The A-level is assessed by two three-hour exams.

Is it hard? If your Turkish is up to scratch, you won't find the AS that taxing. However, for the A2 year, you will need to study culture and literature.

Who takes it? Only 320 students took it last summer.

How cool is it? "I think it is very cool," says Christine Peakman, the qualifications manager for languages at OCR. "Turkey is culturally part-East, part-West. Politically, it's linked to Europe, but is, in many ways, very different from it."

Added value: For students from a Turkish background, it's a chance to discover more about their roots.

What subjects go with it? Any.

What degrees does it lead to? You can do a BA hons in Turkish at the School of Oriental and African Studies (SOAS) in London. There are also several courses available in Middle Eastern languages, in which you can opt to specialise in Turkish.

Will it set you up for a brilliant career? It'll give you an edge. Turkish speakers are very useful in careers including politics and tourism. With so few students taking the A-level, your skills will be in demand.

What do the students say? "The only advantages I have over someone who isn't from a Turkish background are my speaking skills. My writing is just as bad as anyone else's," says Nevin Duzgun, 30, who is studying for A-level Turkish at Southwark College.

Which awarding bodies offer it? OCR.

How widely available is it around the country? It's available everywhere, but you'll have to ask.

c.rudebeck@independent.co.uk