A Level Spanish pupils benefit from student ambassadors

Sixth Form pupils studying Spanish at A Level are being coached by student ambassadors from the University of Hull. The students are both native Spanish speakers from South America. Monica, reading Modern Languages, is from Peru and Alejandra, who is studying for a Masters Degree in International Law, is from Columbia.

The ambassadors coach the pupils in the school library and take part in individual conversational Spanish sessions.

Rajan, who is in Year 12, says, "I've been talking to Monica and Alejandra for three weeks now and it has helped develop my language and pronunciation. The conversations have also helped me to think in Spanish rather than translate first and then speak in Spanish."

Monique, also in Year 12, says, "The help that I’ve had from the student ambassadors has increased my confidence in speaking Spanish and they have helped me learn about the culture of south America.  I am studying Spanish, French, ICT and Mathematics and I would like to study European Languages at either Durham University or Edinburgh University."

Mr Gordon Stephenson, Head of MFL, said, "Student Ambassadors are an excellent way to develop pupil confidence in spoken language, one of the four main skills. Topics of conversation are based around key aspects of the AS/A2 specification, and so the sessions help pupils to extend their ideas and vocabulary in the target language whilst at the same time providing vital examination practice. Add to this the invaluable first-hand cultural insight provided by the native speakers and it is clear to see just how incredibly important they are to our faculty."