“One language sets you in a corridor for life. Two languages open every door along the way.” — Frank Smith

At The Priory Witham Academy, pupils learn Spanish as part of a rich and engaging Modern Foreign Languages curriculum designed to develop linguistic skills and foster an appreciation of other cultures.

From Key Stage 2 (Years 3–6), Spanish is taught for one hour every fortnight by our specialist language teachers. This ensures pupils receive high-quality teaching that supports strong progression in language learning.

Throughout the key stages, pupils develop phonics and pronunciation in Spanish and gradually build a secure foundation of vocabulary, enabling them to communicate with increasing confidence and accuracy. They are taught to:

• Speak in sentences using appropriate intonation
• Express simple ideas clearly and confidently
• Write phrases and short sentences from memory
• Develop an understanding of basic Spanish grammar
• Learn and perform poems and songs in Spanish

Modern Foreign Languages Curriculum Intent

Our Modern Foreign Languages curriculum aims to:

• Provide opportunities for pupils to acquire knowledge and skills, and to apply learning confidently in new and varied contexts
• Develop linguistic competence from Key Stage 1 in listening, speaking, reading and writing across a range of situations and topics
• Build knowledge of grammar, syntax and phonics, supporting literacy development and learning across the wider curriculum
• Foster cultural awareness, curiosity and an appreciation of different perspectives, while encouraging creativity and problem-solving in communication
• Deliver stimulating content through Spanish that broadens pupils’ understanding of Hispanic culture, history and literature
• Immerse pupils in a knowledge-rich curriculum that is both challenging and supportive in developing resilience and confidence
• Ensure vocabulary and grammar are carefully sequenced, with opportunities for retrieval practice and language reuse across contexts
• Enrich pupils’ cultural capital, preparing them to become confident global citizens and supporting readiness for further study, independence and future success.

Learning Spanish gives an opportunity for our pupils to achieve a great sense of accomplishment. It nurtures their self-esteem, develops interpersonal skills and is great fun!

The Essential Characteristics of a Witham Linguist

At The Priory Witham Academy, our ambition for all pupils is for them to master the following characteristics:

• Fluency and accuracy in reading.
• The confidence to speak with good intonation and pronunciation.
• Fluency and imagination in writing.
• A strong awareness of the culture of Hispanic countries.
• A passion for Spanish and a commitment to learning the language.
• An independence in their studies and the ability to draw upon a wide range of resources.
• The ability to use Spanish creatively and spontaneously.