Studying Spanish in lower secondary school offers numerous benefits for young learners. As the second most spoken language in the world, Spanish opens up a wealth of opportunities for future travel, study, and employment. Learning a new language at this stage enhances cognitive abilities, boosts memory, and improves overall academic performance.

Moreover, Spanish language skills foster cultural awareness and empathy, allowing students to appreciate diverse perspectives and traditions. By beginning Spanish in Year 7, 8, or 9, students lay a strong foundation for advanced language studies in later years, equipping them with valuable skills for the globalised world. Embrace the journey of learning Spanish and unlock a world of possibilities!

In our lower secondary Spanish programme, students will embark on an exciting journey to master the basics of the Spanish language. They will develop their skills in listening, speaking, reading, and writing through engaging and interactive lessons.

By the end of the programme, students will have a solid grounding in Spanish, ready to take on more advanced studies and communicate with Spanish speakers around the world.

• Vocabulary and Grammar: Students will build a strong foundation in essential Spanish vocabulary and grammar, enabling them to construct simple sentences and express basic ideas.
• Conversational Skills: Through role-plays and dialogues, students will practice everyday conversations, enhancing their confidence and fluency in speaking Spanish.
• Cultural Insights: Learners will explore the rich and diverse cultures of Spanish-speaking countries, gaining an appreciation for different customs, traditions, and histories.
• Listening Comprehension: Engaging with a variety of audio resources, students will improve their ability to understand spoken Spanish in different contexts.
• Reading and Writing: Through fun and practical exercises, students will develop their reading and writing skills, from understanding simple texts to composing short paragraphs.

We do not expect learners starting this course to have previously studied Spanish.

It requires 1 – 2 hours per week of study time for your child to complete Year 7, 8 or 9.

Cambridge IGCSE Spanish course is designed for students who are learning Spanish as a foreign language. You will develop an ability to use the language effectively for practical communication. The course is based on the linked language skills of listening, reading, speaking and writing, and these are built on as you progress through your studies.

The course also aims to offer insights into the culture of countries where Spanish is spoken, thus encouraging positive attitudes towards language learning and towards speakers of other languages. (Cambridge Assessment International Education, n.d.)

• Listening
• Reading
• Speaking
• Writing

Cambridge IGCSE Spanish requires about 130 hours of study. The number of hours needed may vary depending on your previous experience of the subject.

We recommend that students who are beginning this course should have previously completed a Spanish Language curriculum such as the Cambridge Lower Secondary programme or equivalent national educational framework.

Cambridge International AS & A Level Spanish Language helps learners to develop language proficiency and practical communication skills in Spanish to an Independent User level. The syllabus:

• is suitable for learners working at a level equivalent to at least A2 on the CEFR
• develops learners’ ability in all four language skills: Listening, Reading, Writing and Speaking
• builds knowledge of vocabulary and grammar in the context of six areas covering both familiar and more general topics
• encourages engagement with the culture and society of countries and communities where Spanish is spoken. (Cambridge Assessment International Education, n.d.)

• Communication: Understanding and producing written and spoken language to be understood by others, including strategies for effective self-expression in formal and informal contexts.
• Language Use: Exploring vocabulary and grammar to improve communication, with an emphasis on clear pronunciation and meaning enhancement.
• Cultural Awareness: Gaining insight into the cultures, customs, and practices of Spanish-speaking countries, and understanding how cultural differences influence language and communication.

Cambridge International AS Level Spanish Language requires about 180 hours of study, and Cambridge International A Level Spanish Language requires about 360 hours of study.

These figures are for guidance only. The number of hours needed may vary depending on your previous experience of the subject.

We recommend that students who are beginning this course should have previously completed a Cambridge International GCSE course in Spanish. Grade B/6 or above in Spanish at IGCSE (or equivalent) is required before starting Cambridge International AS & A Level Spanish Language. It is also necessary that all A-Level students have IGCSE English Language, or the equivalent, at Grade C/4 or above.