Beyond the Classroom
Language, culture and communication, leading to a journey abroad
A weekly course for teenagers who want to speak French or Spanish with confidence and understand the places where these languages are lived. Students study grammar, history and culture, practise speaking every week and work together on group projects. All of it leads to a journey to Nice in France or Andalucía in Spain, where they use what they have learned with local people.
The course starts in the week of 4 January 2027 and meets every week until the summer. It ends with the journey abroad in June or July.
Who is it for?
Teenagers who want to communicate better, learn a language properly and get to know a culture through its people, not only its sights. Curiosity and a willingness to speak matter more than their current level.
What happens in a session?
Each 90-minute session mixes language study with cultural work. Students practise grammar and vocabulary, learn about the history, art, music and daily life of the region, and spend real time speaking through discussions, role plays and short presentations. Over the months, each group builds a project to carry out or present during the journey.
Learning aims
- Speak French or Spanish with more confidence and accuracy
- Understand the grammar behind what they say
- Know the history and culture of the region they will visit
- Be ready to talk with local people, not just visit places
- Plan, research and present as a team
Example activities
- Grammar and vocabulary practice built around real situations
- Role plays: introducing yourself, asking questions, finding your way
- Short talks on the history, art and music of the region
- Films, songs and texts from France and Spain
- Group projects to present during the journey
- Preparing questions and interviews for local people
