Spanish is tailored to the learning of our students’ needs as we teach Spanish native speakers and Spanish as a second language. The class size is therefore very small and allows the students to get all the attention they need from their teachers as well as having the opportunity to develop their speaking skills.

We are a very dynamic department and we encourage our students to learn about the Spanish society, culture and traditions during their education at Kensington. We encourage our students to get involved in activities where they have to speak in Spanish, taking full advantage of living in Barcelona. The best way to learn a language is by interacting with people and using the language proactively. We also encourage our students to read in Spanish and watch Spanish TV series or films.

Cultural visits take place throughout the year including an end of year trip to a Spanish city for Sixth form students. Last year out students went to Madrid and had the opportunity to visit the Spanish Parliament, the Prado and Reina Sofia Museums, Alcalá de Henares University, one of the oldest Spanish Universities, and Cervantes’ birthplace.

Every year, our Junior and Senior School students are invited to take part in the “Sant Jordi Literary Competition” where they can win a series of prizes, any awarded prices are presented in our final year assembly.

Junior School

Our students start learning Spanish from Reception. From Junior 1 to Junior 6 students are split in two levels: Spanish for Native Speakers and Spanish as a Second Language.

By using appropriate materials in each level, students build up their knowledge based on their prior level which allows them to communicate effectively both in speaking and writing. We encourage our students to read and borrow books in the target language from our school library.

Senior School

Pupils in Forms 1, 2 and 3 are divided into two levels: Spanish for Native Speakers and Spanish as a Second language, giving both groups the opportunity to develop their language skills according to their level.

Every year, we organise a series of Theatre trips where we learn about a Spanish author and their work. These authors include, Federico García Lorca, Miguel de Cervantes, Miguel Mihura and Antonio Buero Vallejo. Students are encouraged to read as much and as widely as possible, developing a love and understanding of literature throughout each academic year.