Spanish

Course summary

Spanish continues to grow in importance, not only in Europe but also globally. With some 480 million native speakers, it is the third most commonly spoken language in the world (after English and Mandarin Chinese) so it comes as no surprise that knowledge of Spanish is a significant asset for job seekers and can open the door to a wide range of careers. A level Spanish offers pupils the chance to extend their linguistic competence well beyond GCSE level as well as expanding their cultural awareness. Pupils are strongly encouraged to spend a period of time in a Hispanic-speaking country; individual home-stays or language courses are just two of the options to choose from. Throughout the year numerous departmental events are offered which give the pupils an opportunity to converse in the language and improve on their fluency. Pupils also spend time each week in small conversation groups with the native Spanish assistant. There are a number of extra-curricular events throughout the year from film evenings, theatre visits, dinners and visiting speakers. There is also a Lower Sixth trip to Spain in the first week of the Easter break.