Spanish
Why study Spanish at The Perse?
Spanish at The Perse is about far more than learning a language. We believe language and culture are inseparable, so pupils explore the history, literature, traditions and contemporary issues that shape the Spanish-speaking world alongside developing their linguistic skills. Through authentic Spanish texts, film, poetry and music, they gain the confidence to communicate while developing a genuine understanding of different cultures and perspectives.
How we think
Our curriculum is built around real places, real stories and real people. Each year group explores a different Spanish-speaking country, using language as the gateway to understanding its culture and identity. Pupils discover Mexico through Aztec and Mayan mythology and the Day of the Dead, investigate Cuba through its revolutionary history and historical fiction, and explore Colombia through music and contemporary social issues. By bringing the Spanish language to life in meaningful contexts, pupils become confident, curious linguists with a global outlook.
Beyond the classroom
Learning extends well beyond lessons. Pupils can join Spanish book, film and poetry clubs, enter the prestigious Anthea Bell Prize for Young Translators, work towards DELE qualifications, and become Spanish ambassadors or mentors. Our close partnership with seven schools in Cantabria provides regular immersion events with visiting Spanish pupils, while one-to-one sessions with our specialist Spanish Oral Language Teacher help develop fluency and confidence. Heritage speakers are welcomed into lessons and encouraged through additional challenge and leadership opportunities.
Recent highlights
Perse Spanish pupils have enjoyed sustained success in the Anthea Bell Translation Prize, while many Old Perseans have gone on to study Spanish alongside subjects such as Law, Politics and History at leading universities including Oxford, Durham and UCL. They have subsequently built international careers across diplomacy, law, finance, education and global business.