Year 7 – 9
Spanish
Key Stage: KS3
Language opens the world. The study of Spanish at Hammersmith Academy inspires curiosity, cultural understanding and confidence enabling students to engage with the Spanish-speaking world and communicate effectively in a second language. Through exploration of language, culture and identity, students gain the tools to connect, express and understand perspectives beyond their own.
The purpose of the Spanish curriculum is to build students’ linguistic skills and cultural awareness, empowering them to communicate with growing confidence and spontaneity.
Building on foundational knowledge from Key Stage 2, students begin to explore Spanish grammar, vocabulary and pronunciation, developing understanding through real-world contexts such as family life, personal relationships and leisure activities.
Lessons emphasise communication and cultural curiosity, helping students appreciate how language connects people and communities across the globe.
At Key Stage 3, students are introduced to key GCSE topics including People and Lifestyle, Popular Culture, and Communication and the World Around Us. The curriculum spirals knowledge and skills across the three years, training students in the four core language competencies:
- Listening
- Reading
- Speaking
- Writing
Vocabulary, grammar and verb tenses are introduced progressively, enabling students to form increasingly complex sentences and paragraphs. This structured approach ensures that every learner gains the confidence and fluency required for success at Key Stage 4 and beyond.
Students also develop an appreciation for the rich cultural diversity of the Spanish-speaking world – from the art and music of Spain to the traditions and histories of Latin America. Through classroom activities, trips and partnerships, they experience language as a living, dynamic medium for communication and cultural exchange.
Year-by-Year Curriculum
Year 7
Students begin by developing core performance skills – voice, movement and character creation – building confidence and teamwork through practical exploration.
Modules include:
- Mi ciudad (Module 1)
- TV, música y eventos (Module 2)
- A comer (Module 3)
- ¿Qué hacemos? (Module 4)
- Mis vacaciones (Module 5)
- Consolidation (Module 6)
This foundational year introduces students to key techniques and performance conventions, encouraging creativity and clear communication.
Year 8
Students explore a range of theatrical styles and influential practitioners, broadening their understanding of performance and interpretation. They learn how different approaches can communicate meaning effectively to an audience.
Modules include:
- Blood Brothers (Module 1)
- Brecht and Political Theatre (Module 2)
- Bang Out of Order (Module 3)
- Asylum Seekers (Module 4)
- Naturalism and Stanislavski (Module 5)
- Monologues and Duologues (Module 6)
Lessons encourage students to combine creative experimentation with disciplined rehearsal and self-evaluation.
Year 9
In their final KS3 year, students take on more complex projects, preparing for GCSE Drama by developing sustained performances and deeper script analysis.
Modules include:
- Somos así (Module 1)
- Me, my family and friends (Module 2)
- Me, my family and Friends + Holidays (Module 3)
- Holidays (Module 4)
- Revision (Module 5-6)
Students refine their use of vocal and physical skills, explore the role of design and technical elements, and learn to respond critically to contemporary social themes through performance.
Skills Gained
- Communication and presentation skills
- Listening, reading, writing and speaking fluency
- Cultural awareness and empathy
- Problem solving and memory recall
- Confidence and resilience in language learning
These transferable skills enable students to thrive in a globalised world, preparing them for academic, professional and personal success.
Partnerships & Enrichment
Students’ learning is enriched through trips, exchanges and partnerships that immerse them in Spanish language and culture.
Key opportunities include:
- Spanish Trip to Spain
- Academia Estudio
- Hampton School
- British Film Institute (BFI)
These experiences deepen cultural understanding and provide students with the chance to practise their language skills in authentic settings.
Potential Careers
Language learning develops global citizens and adaptable professionals. Studying Spanish supports careers in:
Translation and Interpreting | International Business and Marketing | Travel, Tourism and Hospitality | Education and Cultural Exchange | Journalism and Media
Spanish is one of the most widely spoken languages in the world – opening doors to exciting global opportunities and intercultural connections.
