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What is A2 Key for Schools (KET S)?
A2 Key for Schools (KET S) is a pre-intermediate level exam, set at Level A2 of the Council of Europe's Common European Framework of Reference for Languages. A2 Key (KET) and A2 Key for Schools (KET S) follow exactly the same format and the level of the question papers is identical.
The content and treatment of topics in A2 Key for Schools (KET S) have been particularly targeted at the interests and experience of school pupils.
At Level A2, typical users can be expected to:
- understand and use everyday expressions and basic phrases
- introduce themselves and answer basic questions about their personal details
- interact with English speakers who talk slowly and clearly
- write short , simple notes
Who takes A2 Key for Schools (KET S) in Switzerland?
In Switzerland A2 Key for Schools (KET S) is mainly used by secondary school students which usually take it at the end of their 3rd year in secondary school. In some cases, strong primary school students with the necessary background take A2 Key for Schools (KET S) in primary school.
How is the official A2 Key for Schools (KET S) certificate recognised in Switzerland?
As A2 Key for Schools (KET S) is mainly taken by teenagers and young adults and shows their ability and determination of striving and working towards a goal. Therefore, holding a A2 Key for Schools (KET S) certificate will enhance any CV or application for an apprenticeship or job.
Format of the exam
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Paper |
Content | Marks (%of total) | Purpose |
|---|---|---|---|
|
Reading and Writing |
9 parts/ 56 questions |
50% | Shows a student can understand simple written information such as signs, brochures, newspapers and magazines. They will also have to fill gaps in simple sentences and write a short message or note. |
|
Listening |
5 parts/ 25 questions |
25% | Requires a student to be able to understand announcements and other spoken material when people speak reasonably slowly. |
|
Speaking |
2 parts | 25% | Tests a student’s ability to take part in a conversation by answering and asking simple questions. Their Speaking test will be conducted face to face with one or two other students. This makes their test more realistic and more reliable. |
Please click here for further details about the exam format.
A2 Key for Schools (KET S) has undergone a thorough review to ensure that the exams continue to remain relevant to the needs of schools and learners. Have a look at the summary. The revision is now complete and the updated exam will start being used for exam sessions in January 2020.
Flexible Test Options
The A2 Key for Schools (KET S) exam can be taken as a paper-based or a computer-based exam:
Registration, Dates and Prices
Exams are offered all over Switzerland, however, locations and dates may vary. Please check all available A2 Key for Schools (KET S) exam dates and prices by clicking on the following link.
Overview exam dates and prices
How can a student prepare for A2 Key for Schools (KETfS)?
There are many schools across Switzerland which offer preparation courses for Cambridge English Exams. These schools can be found on our recommended school list.
In our online shop there are various preparation materials, which can enhance the exam preparation and support any student in his endeavour to succeed when taking a Cambridge English Exam.
Supporting Material
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A2 Key for Schools Handbook for Teachers order here The focus is on each paper, including content and advice on preparation. |
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Trainer for KET for Schools order here This KET for Schools Trainer includes six practice tests with answers and teacher's notes. |
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Key for Schools 2 self-study pack order here This set of tests provides exam preparation, allowing candidates to familiarise themselves with the content of the Cambridge English Key for Schools exam and to practise exam techniques. |
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Speaking Test Preparation Pack order here The Speaking Test Preparation Pack provides an introduction to the particular exam and shows one complete exam. |
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Official Past Papers order here These official Past Papers are made of original exam papers from previous years and can be used in order to practise for the KET for Schools exam. |
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Online Practice Test order here This practice test is designed to help candidates prepare for the KET for Schools computer-based exam. |
Official Swiss Exams Dates and Locations for the A2 Key for Schools (KET S) Certificate