Spanish

The Spanish Study Area is housed within a block of classrooms situated opposite the main school building. Currently there are two specialist teachers who are supported by a teaching assistant and a Spanish language assistant, who are employed to help students improve their speaking skills in Spanish.

Spanish classrooms are bright and well equipped and enjoy internet access. Teaching resources are varied and effective. Although money has been spent on exciting books and ICT software, teachers have supplemented courses by creating their own materials to match the learning needs of our students. Teachers and support staff constantly strive to improve the learning experience of all students.

From September, the Study Area will use microphones with built in recorders that will enable students to speak Spanish individually or in pairs. Teachers will be able to mark speaking exercises using each microphone's in-built USB stick. Feedback and advice will be given on each student's speaking skills. In 2009 GCSE results were pleasing. The outgoing Year 11 Spanish result was 90% A*-C and this summer we fully expect it to be 100%. The current Year 10 GCSE groups have all taken examinations early. In June, a group of our GCSE Spanish students spent five days in Tossa de Mar. They were able to experience Spanish culture and use the language in the hotel, local market, shops, and during excursions.

Spanish was introduced in KS3 for the first time in September 2009 and from September 2010 all KS3 students will study both French and Spanish.  Over fifty Orange Pathway students in both Years 9 and 10 will begin Spanish GCSE studies this September. An after school Spanish club is offered to KS3 students and GCSE revision classes for students in KS4. The Spanish Study Area subscribes to the Atantot internet site for student use at home or in school. Teachers have issued slips with the required password. Students are invited to borrow the Spanish Mary Glasgow magazines to read at home.{jcomments off}