Spanish

Why study Spanish?

The study of languages helps prepare young people for life in a global society and for work in a competitive global economy. We raise aspirations by broadening horizons: learning a foreign language encourages us to see ourselves as part of a bigger world. Extra-curricular trips help give an insight into life and culture abroad.

Students are active, engaged and motivated. We aim to nurture young people who are confident and independent and who ask thought-provoking questions. Language study focuses on developing four fundamental skills: reading, writing, speaking and listening. These are skills that we use throughout our lives, regardless of the language(s) we speak.

In this era of globalisation, the world has never been smaller. Learning a foreign language is more important than ever.
Mrs Hytner

How we organise learning

We offer both French and Spanish. Students are set according to ability and continue with the same language to GCSE. With the exception of students requiring additional support with literacy, all students study a language at Ridgeway, and continue to study their chosen language of either French or Spanish to GCSE.

The curriculum is organised over five years. All skills (speaking, listening, reading and writing) carry equal weighting.

Spanish in key stage 3

In key stage 3 students follow a foundation course which covers the basics, focusing on linguistic content and the application of grammar.

Spanish in key stage 4

Students study for a GCSE in Spanish.

Examination Board: Eduqas
Specification Name: Spanish
Link: GCSE Spanish

Exemplar learning programmes and Memory Mastery

More information

*This article was published in Ridgeway New Times in May 2023. Some of the details about curriculum content may no longer be up to date.