MfL
At Ashton Hayes, we believe learning a foreign language opens doors to new cultures, ideas and ways of thinking. That’s why we teach Spanish as part of our MFL (Modern Foreign Languages) curriculum. Spanish is spoken by over 500 million people around the world and gives our pupils the chance to explore a rich, global language.
Why Learn Spanish?
Learning Spanish has many benefits beyond just speaking a new language. It helps pupils understand how language works – including their own. By learning Spanish grammar, children often gain a better understanding of English grammar, sentence structure and vocabulary.
Learning another language also supports problem-solving and critical thinking. Pupils are constantly spotting patterns, making connections, and applying what they know in new ways.
Most importantly, learning Spanish gives children a valuable insight into different cultures. It helps build intercultural understanding, teaching children to respect and appreciate other traditions and ways of life. These are key skills in today’s diverse and connected world.
How We Teach Spanish
At Ashton Hayes, we use a combination of high-quality resources and a personalised curriculum to deliver engaging and effective Spanish lessons.
In Reception and Key Stage 1, we follow Rockalingua, a vibrant and interactive programme that uses songs, games, stories and videos to introduce young learners to the language in a fun and memorable way.
In Key Stage 2, we build on this foundation using a blend of Rockalingua resources and a bespoke curriculum developed in school. This approach allows us to tailor our teaching to the interests and needs of our pupils, while ensuring strong progression in the key language skills of listening, speaking, reading and writing.
We also encourage pupils to use simple Spanish phrases in the classroom throughout the day. This might include greetings, asking to go to the toilet, responding to the register, or giving classroom instructions. It helps to keep the language active and part of their everyday routine.
Bringing Spanish to Life
We want children to see Spanish as more than just a school subject. That’s why we include many opportunities for them to use and enjoy the language in real-world contexts.
One exciting part of our curriculum is our pen-pal scheme with a school in Spain. Pupils exchange letters and digital messages with Spanish-speaking children, helping them use their language skills in a meaningful way while building friendships and cultural understanding.
We also celebrate important language and culture days. These include the European Day of Languages, where children take part in language games, assemblies, and activities that celebrate different countries and cultures.
We mark Spanish cultural events like El Día de los Muertos (The Day of the Dead), where pupils learn about the meaning behind the celebration and take part in themed art and storytelling activities. We also enjoy traditional Spanish fun like making and breaking a piñata – always a highlight!
Spanish clubs are offered during lunchtime and after school for children who want to practise more and deepen their interest in the language.
The Impact of Learning Spanish
By the time pupils leave Ashton Hayes, they will have a strong foundation in Spanish. They will be able to speak, read and write with confidence at an appropriate level for their age. They’ll understand how language works and be better prepared to continue learning Spanish in secondary school.
More than that, they will leave with a broader worldview, a greater appreciation for other cultures, and the confidence to communicate with people beyond their own community.
