Spanish (Modern Foreign Language)
Spanish (Modern Foreign Languages) Curriculum Intent
Our Spanish curriculum is designed to develop pupils’ confidence and enjoyment in learning a new language, while building a strong foundation in listening, speaking, reading and writing. Pupils are encouraged to develop curiosity about language and to gain an understanding of cultural differences in Spanish-speaking countries. The curriculum is carefully sequenced so that pupils build secure knowledge of Spanish vocabulary, pronunciation and basic grammatical structures over time. A strong emphasis is placed on phonics and accurate pronunciation, allowing pupils to recognise, recall and use language with increasing confidence. Key vocabulary and language patterns are revisited through intelligent repetition to support retention and fluent use.
Spanish is taught in Key Stage 2, building on pupils’ existing literacy skills in English. As pupils progress, they are supported to move from single words to short phrases and sentences, developing confidence in expressing simple ideas both orally and in written form.
Our Spanish curriculum is ambitious and inclusive, designed to be accessible to all pupils, including those with SEND and those who may face barriers to learning. By the end of primary school, pupils will have developed a secure foundation in Spanish vocabulary and pronunciation, an awareness of Spanish culture and the confidence to communicate simple ideas in another language.
Spanish Subject Overview
The Spanish subject overview shows how key vocabulary, phonics and language structures are organised and revisited across Key Stage 2 to support progression and retention over time.
How Spanish is Taught
Spanish is taught through a carefully sequenced curriculum in Key Stage 2 that builds pupils’ language knowledge and skills progressively over time. New learning is explicitly linked to prior knowledge so that pupils develop increasing confidence in using and understanding Spanish. Lessons focus on developing listening and speaking skills, with a strong emphasis on accurate pronunciation and phonics. Pupils regularly hear and practise spoken Spanish through repetition, songs, games and structured dialogue, helping them to develop confidence and fluency.
Reading and writing are introduced gradually to support pupils in recognising familiar words and phrases and using them in simple written form. Key vocabulary and language patterns are explicitly taught and revisited to support retention and accurate use. Cultural learning is woven throughout the curriculum, helping pupils to develop an awareness of Spanish-speaking countries and communities. Teaching is inclusive and supportive, enabling all pupils to participate and make progress in learning a new language.
Adaptive Teaching
Our Spanish curriculum is designed to be inclusive and accessible to all pupils, including those with SEND and those who may face barriers to learning. Adaptations are made through high-quality teaching so that all pupils can participate confidently in language learning. New vocabulary is introduced in small, meaningful sets and revisited regularly to support memory and retention. Repetition is built into lessons through songs, chants and spoken activities, helping pupils to become familiar with sounds and patterns in the language. Pronunciation is modelled clearly and consistently, with visual support such as vocabulary mats and phonics cues used to reinforce understanding. Where appropriate, pupils may demonstrate their understanding through matching, drawing or oral responses rather than extended written work. Lessons are structured into short, engaging segments to support focus and confidence, ensuring that all pupils can access and enjoy learning Spanish.
Impact
The impact of our Spanish curriculum is that pupils develop confidence and enjoyment in learning a new language and a secure foundation in listening, speaking, reading and writing.
Pupils can recognise and recall key Spanish vocabulary, pronounce words accurately and use familiar words and phrases to communicate simple ideas. They demonstrate an understanding of how language works and an awareness of cultural differences in Spanish-speaking countries.
By the end of primary school, pupils have developed the confidence to communicate simple ideas in Spanish, a secure foundation in pronunciation and vocabulary and a positive attitude towards learning languages in the future.
Spanish Enrichment
Pupils’ language learning is enriched through whole-school themed events such as European Languages Day and Spanish Day. These events provide opportunities for pupils to celebrate language learning, explore aspects of Spanish culture and apply their language skills in enjoyable and meaningful contexts beyond regular lessons.