If you talk to a man in a language he understands, that goes to his head. If you talk to a man in his own language, that goes to his heart.
Spanish at The Hayfield School aims to develop independent, aspirational students who are self-motivated and can communicate effectively and practically in the target language, through the delivery of a high quality, engaging and enjoyable curriculum. We strive to inspire and challenge our students linguistically and culturally through increasing their intercultural understanding, providing our young people with invaluable opportunities to explore other cultures and civilisations. Motivational MFL education fosters pupils’ curiosity and deepens their understanding and respect of the world around them.
Our shared ambition is to pass on the passion and enthusiasm we have for language learning, equipping students with instrumental skills and knowledge that they will be able to transfer to further study, work, and leisure.
Our bespoke Key Stage 3 Curriculum blends key aspects of the national curriculum with a focus on the Spanish speaking world, in order to create a motivational and stimulating course of study. We focus on securing key structures through the extensive use of repetition and recall, revisiting those key structures to ensure they become embedded in the long-term memory. We provide opportunities for students to develop their listening, speaking, reading and writing skills and to express themselves with increasing confidence, independence and creativity. This approach ensures a firm foundation in all four key skills, which we build upon further throughout Key Stage 4, in preparation for GCSE examinations.
At The Hayfield School we are passionate about the benefits learning a language can bring. We strongly believe in languages as a skill for life and something students should enjoy and find rewarding. Studying a foreign language can expand your cultural knowledge whilst at the same time obviously developing your language skills, many of which are transferable into and indeed complement other subject areas. Employers greatly value employees with language skills and this can often lead to higher salaries.
The AQA Spanish GCSE is divided into three themes:
Theme 1: People and Lifestyle
Theme 2: Popular Culture
Theme 3: Communication and the world around us
By studying a GCSE in a foreign language you will primarily develop the skill of communication with others, whether through the written or spoken language. Being able to communicate with someone in his or her own language is an incredible gift.
Learning a second language has also been shown to improve memory, problem solving and critical thinking skills, all of which can be transferable into other areas of study or employment. It can also make learning other languages easier in the future.
An open, enquiring mind and plenty of perseverance!
By studying a foreign language, you will also develop a greater understanding of the culture of other countries, promoting greater tolerance, empathy and acceptance of other ways of life.
Studying Spanish will open so many doors for you. You may wish to continue your studies to further or higher education level, or you may wish to try a different language, making use of the skills you acquired at GCSE level. Linguists are always much sought after in the world of work, so no matter what career you eventually choose, the ability to speak a second language will always be an asset.
Your teacher will be happy to share knowledge of linked professions with you.
