Modern Foreign Languages (Spanish)
¡Hola!
At Leopold Primary School, we believe that learning a foreign language provides a valuable educational, social and cultural experience. Through the teaching of Spanish, pupils develop communication skills, broaden their understanding of the world, and gain an appreciation of different cultures. Language learning supports pupils’ confidence, curiosity and resilience, while also enhancing literacy skills in English.
Intent
Our intent is to inspire a love of language learning and to equip pupils with the foundations to communicate in Spanish with increasing confidence. From Key Stage 2, pupils are introduced to Spanish in a structured and engaging way.
We aim to:
- Develop pupils’ ability to understand and respond to spoken and written Spanish
- Enable pupils to communicate confidently using simple words, phrases and sentences
- Build accurate pronunciation and intonation
- Develop an understanding of basic grammar, including sentence structure and verb use
- Foster curiosity and appreciation for Spanish-speaking cultures
- Encourage resilience and confidence in language learning
Implementation
Spanish is taught throughout Key Stage 2 using a progressive and structured approach. Lessons are carefully planned to build on prior knowledge and ensure progression in speaking, listening, reading and writing.
Pupils are given opportunities to:
- Listen attentively and respond to spoken language
- Speak with increasing confidence, using accurate pronunciation
- Read and understand simple words, phrases and sentences
- Write basic sentences using familiar vocabulary
- Learn key vocabulary linked to topics such as greetings, numbers, colours, food, family and school
- Develop understanding of basic grammar, including gender, plurals and simple verb forms
Teaching includes a variety of engaging strategies such as songs, games, role-play, repetition and interactive activities to support memory and enjoyment.
Enrichment and Cultural Experiences
We believe that language learning is most powerful when it is brought to life through real experiences. At Leopold Primary School, pupils are given opportunities beyond the classroom to deepen their understanding and enjoyment of Spanish.
Spanish Club
Pupils can take part in a Spanish lunchtime club, where they practise language skills in a fun, informal environment. Activities may include games, songs, conversation practice and cultural learning, helping to build confidence and enthusiasm.
Trips and Cultural Learning
Pupils also take part in educational visits linked to Spanish language and culture. These include learning about important aspects of Spanish history and heritage, such as:
- Pablo Picasso – exploring his life, artwork and influence
- Nao Santa María – learning about exploration and Spanish maritime history
These experiences help pupils make meaningful connections between language, history and culture, deepening their understanding of the wider world.
Impact
Through our Spanish curriculum and enrichment opportunities, pupils develop the confidence to communicate in another language and build a strong foundation for future language learning. They demonstrate increasing accuracy in pronunciation, reading and writing, and show enthusiasm and curiosity about different cultures.
By the end of Key Stage 2, pupils are able to:
- Understand and respond to simple spoken and written Spanish
- Speak in short sentences with developing confidence
- Write simple phrases and sentences
- Apply basic grammatical knowledge
- Show an awareness of Spanish-speaking countries and cultures
Supporting All Learners
Our Spanish curriculum is inclusive and accessible to all pupils. Teachers ensure that all learners can participate and succeed by:
- Using visual aids, gestures and repetition to support understanding
- Providing scaffolds such as word banks and sentence starters
- Adapting tasks to meet individual needs
- Encouraging participation and building confidence in speaking
Supporting Learning At Home
Parents and carers can support language learning by:
- Encouraging children to practise key vocabulary and phrases
- Listening to Spanish songs or watching age-appropriate videos
- Using simple apps or games to reinforce learning
- Encouraging curiosity about different languages and cultures