Spanish at Tormead
Spanish Lessons at Tormead School, Guildford
In today’s multicultural world it has never been more vital to be able to speak another language. Spanish opens the doors to so many countries and – with over 500 million speakers – it is the world’s second most spoken language by native speakers. Let’s not forget that many people also learn Spanish, so you really can communicate with millions of people.
Studying Spanish allows students to open their minds to other cultures and to understand their own better. Students opting for Spanish find that it complements many other A Level subjects and allows you to keep your language skills alive whilst focusing on your chosen career path. Universities are keen to take on those who have a language, or who wish to continue studying a language course, as it makes you a flexible learner. In lessons, we believe in supporting our students to make language connections, build their confidence, and develop the skills required to be successful both in the classroom and later in life. Learning Spanish is an investment in a brighter, globally connected future.
- Lower School
Studying Spanish at Key Stage 3 offers students a rich and rewarding experience that extends far beyond the classroom. We aim to foster a love of learning and support students to master the grammar needed to communicate in this beautiful language. As part of the course, students will develop communication skills, a global perspective and intellectual curiosity.
In the Lower School we use the Claro course and by the end of Year 9, students will have touched upon some of the topics covered in the IGCSE syllabus. They will also be able to apply present, past and future tenses to their work and conversations.
- IGCSE
“The qualification supports seamless progression to further study, with up-to-date content reflecting the latest thinking in the subject.” (Pearson Edexcel)
We study the Edexcel specification and the examination consists of three papers:
- Listening 25%
- Reading and Writing 50%
- Speaking 25%
Topics for study are:
- Home and abroad
- Education and employment
- Personal life and relationships
- The world around us
- Social activities, fitness and health
The examination covers the four skills of reading, writing, listening and speaking and is examined at the end of the two-year course. During the two years, pupils have opportunities to practise these skills both in and out of the classroom with their teacher and Spanish assistant. In Year 11, students take advantage of small group conversation classes.
Embracing Spanish at this stage of education is an investment in a brighter, more globally connected future and by continuing on to A Level you will be even more employable.
- Enrichment
In Lower School, the Modern Foreign Languages club includes delving into the culture of the many Spanish speaking countries, making a piñata or watching some Spanish films. These sessions are led by the Modern Foreign Language subject mentors and Language teachers.
In Senior School, there’s the chance to visit Spain where pupils have language lessons and are able to visit key landmarks of this rich, diverse, cultural and historical country.
During the A Level course, students can attend film and literature conferences and visit the British Film Institute in London. We also organise opportunities to interview experts in their field such as immigration workers via Skype. Speed debating with local schools is also a popular event where girls get to socialise with other A Level Spanish students. Most years, we can secure a pen-pal for every girl studying Spanish and during the year they will exchange letters.
11-16 Years
Our pupils enjoy exceptional educational opportunities within a caring and happy environment.
