Foreign Languages

Spanish Curriculum Map

Spanish Progression in Skills & Knowledge

Intent

Learning a modern foreign language is an essential skill for life. At RHS, we teach Spanish to give pupils the linguistic knowledge, cultural awareness and confidence to communicate in a variety of countries and situations.

We develop the four key skills—listening, speaking, reading and writing—both inside and outside the classroom, helping children use Spanish in different contexts and with different audiences.

Our pupils approach language learning with enthusiasm, taking risks and using Spanish with pride. Pupils understand that learning another language supports personal, intellectual and emotional growth, and they appreciate the importance of other cultures, traditions and celebrations.

By the time pupils leave RHS, they will:

• understand how Spanish works, including the use of keywords and basic grammar such as gender

• apply the four main language skills confidently

• use thinking skills and tools (e.g. Thinking Maps) to strengthen their learning

• have a broad understanding of the world, particularly Hispanic cultures, traditions and celebrations

Implementation

Spanish is taught weekly from Reception to Year 6. In EYFS and Years 1-2 (Key Stage 1) lessons are led by our specialist Spanish teachers, while in Years 3-6 (Key Stage 2) they are taught by our Modern Foreign Language subject leader, supported by LSAs.

Lessons are active and engaging, using songs, role-play, grammar games, storytelling and Content and Language Integrated Learning (CLIL) in some units. Pupils learn basic grammar, building knowledge each year, and take part in reading and writing activities to deepen their understanding. Most lessons are delivered in Spanish, giving pupils regular opportunities to develop their speaking and listening skills.

Spanish is woven into school life beyond the classroom through greetings in the corridors, assemblies, workshops, and whole-school projects on Hispanic topics. Extra-curricular opportunities include a KS2 Spanish club and an Italian club for EYFS and KS1.

We also have a special partnership with Villalpando School in Spain, enabling pupils to use Spanish with real audiences and making their learning engaging, authentic and purposeful.

Impact

Pupil progress is assessed continuously in lessons and formally at the end of each half term, with results recorded in Arbor. Work in Spanish folders and books demonstrates clear progression in language knowledge and writing skills year-on-year.

The MFL subject leader maintains a termly action plan to track developments and next steps, and every pupil’s annual school report includes a section on their Spanish progress. An end of year school report is provided to parents of every child with a Spanish section that shows children’s progress in the MFL session.