Spanish

Spanish at The Perse Sixth Form combines academic excellence with real-world communication, giving students the confidence to use the language fluently while exploring the rich cultures, history and contemporary societies of the Spanish-speaking world. Through small classes, expert teaching and extensive opportunities to practise the language beyond the classroom, students develop the linguistic, analytical and cultural understanding needed for university and international careers.

Personalised learning and academic excellence

A distinctive feature of Spanish at The Perse is the highly personalised support every student receives. Small class sizes allow teachers to tailor learning to individual needs, while each student benefits from a 40-minute one-to-one conversation session every week with a native-speaker Oral Language Teacher (OLT). These sessions develop fluency, confidence and spontaneity in spoken Spanish, complementing classroom learning and preparing students for both examinations and real-life communication.

Students are taught by experienced subject specialists, including A level examiners, and the department has an exceptional record of academic success.

Learning beyond the specification

The Spanish course extends well beyond the A level curriculum through a rich programme of super-curricular activities. Students can take part in film, poetry and book clubs, Spanish and Brazilian Portuguese immersion days, student theatre productions and subject support sessions, while also benefiting from theatre visits, workshops and university events as opportunities arise.

Students are encouraged to prepare for the internationally recognised DELE B2 qualification, providing a valuable practical complement to A level Spanish and an additional qualification recognised by universities and employers worldwide. There are also opportunities to enter competitions such as the Anthea Bell Young Translators Prize, helping students develop their linguistic creativity and translation skills.

Learning through language and culture

A highlight of the Sixth Form experience is the work experience programme in Spain, where students apply their language skills in professional settings including pharmacies, museums, schools, restaurants and radio stations. Alongside their placements, students visit local schools, meet Spanish contemporaries and take part in a wider programme of cultural visits and excursions, gaining first-hand experience of Spanish language and culture while developing confidence in a professional environment.

University preparation and future pathways

Spanish develops confident communication, cultural awareness, independent research and critical thinking, alongside the adaptability and interpersonal skills that are increasingly valued by universities and employers.

Many Perse students continue their study of Spanish at leading universities, including Oxford, Cambridge, Durham, UCL and institutions overseas, often combining the subject with another discipline and spending a year abroad. Graduates have gone on to successful international careers in fields including law, foreign policy, accountancy, business and many other professions where language skills and global awareness are highly valued.

Assessment details

Two written papers and an oral exam at the end of the Upper Sixth.

The examining board is AQA.