The Spanish curriculum at Westfield Academy 

Spanish is a subject that gives pupils the opportunity to develop their linguistic abilities and communication skills. Pupils will become skilled in the ability to read, write, speak and listen in Spanish. They will not only gain the ability to communicate in Spanish, but will gain insight into Spanish culture around the world. Students are given the opportunity to work with native speakers to develop their understanding, and we offer many opportunities for students to immerse themselves in the Spanish language and culture with diverse experiences, such as residential trips to Spain. 

Spanish gives pupils the opportunity to understand another culture, to learn about diversity and encourages discussion about the wider world.

At key stage 3, students will learn Past, Present and Future tenses, Adjectives, Verbs, Regular and Irregular verbs, Comparatives and Superlatives, Spanish food, Holidays, Technology, Immigration, Spanish Festivals.

At Key stage 4, students have the option to study GCSE Spanish and continue their development of the language. Students will work with the AQA specification, and will learn:

• Theme 1: People and lifestyle

  • Identity

  • Healthy living and lifestyle

  • Education and Work

• Theme 2: Popular Culture

  • Free-time activities

  • Customs, festivals and celebrations

  • Celebrity culture

• These 3: Communication and the world around us.

  • Travel and Tourism

  • Media and Technology

  • The environment

Spanish in the sixth form 

A-level Spanish covers many parts of the GCSE specification, but takes it to a more advanced level. There is a greater focus on understanding social issues, cultural heritage in the Hispanic world and understanding the political landscape of Spanish-speaking countries.

At key stage 5, students have the opportunity to study A Level Spanish using the AQA specification. They will study:

• Social issues and trends

  • Aspects of Hispanic Society

  • Multiculturalism in Hispanic Society

• Political and artistic culture

  • Artistic Culture

  • Political life

• One text - La Casa de Bernarda Alba, and one film - El Laberinto del Fauno

In the past, students have gone on to study Spanish at degree level as well as combine their language with other degrees such as business. Knowledge of a foreign language offers wider opportunities to work or travel, enhancing a wide variety of jobs and careers.